What's Inside?

Children's Literature - Margarette Reid

The title of this small, square book poses a question that prompts many young children to action, sometimes appropriate, but often inappropriate. In Chapter I, the object is a suitcase, next a present, then a watermelon. By lifting a flap, the child discovers satisfaction. In Chapter II the exploration of a Teddy Bear, a television set, and a ball, prove disappointing and ill advised. Is the point made without preaching? In Chapter III, the prospect of Mommy growing a baby inside her tummy is certainly mysterious. Lifting three succeeding flaps reveal a simple drawing of a developing baby. Finally the happy conclusion shows the child holding the living baby. I doubt that I would use this book with my child. Encouraging a child to experience the movement of a developing sibling and the wonder of this miracle could be handled better by caring parents without the book. 2000 (orig.

School Library Journal

PreS-This simple and unassuming lift-the-flap book is divided into three chapters that show the insides of things that open, things that "it's best not to look inside," and something "we can't open"-a mother's pregnant tummy. Readers can see the clothes inside the suitcase, wires inside the TV ("Oh My! It's Complicated!"), and three different stages of an unborn baby's growth. Small in size, with hand-printed lettering, the book is childlike and accessible. Not only are certain basic concepts explored (open/close, inside/outside, can/can't), but young readers will also understand why an expectant mother's belly gets bigger. The illustrated objects are outlined in thick, brown watercolor. Colors are muted and murky, adding to the author's low-key approach. This multiuse title will give toddlers the power to explore and play on their own level.-Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MI Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|

Leonard S. Marcus

Many interesting insides are explored in this innovative lift-the-flap book illustrated with deft watercolor art. Little ones eager to uncover hidden secrets can see the innards of a suitcase, a watermelon, a stuffed bear, and - most fascinating of all - the belly of a pregnant woman.
— Parenting