First Brother or Sister

Children's Literature

One of four books in the "Sprouts" series, designed to help young children "gain knowledge and understanding of the world around them," this entry prepares siblings for the impending arrival of a brother or sister. An eye-catching layout, color photos and minimal text combine to follow a young boy on the journey from learning about his mother's pregnancy to the arrival of his new baby sister and her first few weeks at home. The use of one family's experience personalizes this important event as the young boy helps to prepare for the new arrival. The story emphasizes the participation of all family members, even Grandma. Nearly all aspects of having a new baby at home are mentioned to prepare the young sibling. Unfortunately, the photo showing the baby sister a few years later does not show the brother as more mature. An index and glossary are included. 2004, Raintree, Ages 4 to 7.
—Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.