I Am a Big Brother

July 1, 2015
A little boy exults in his new role as big brother. Rhyming text describes the arrival of a new baby and all of the big brother's rewarding new duties. He gets to help with feedings, diaper changes, playtime, bathtime, and naptime. Though the rhyming couplets can sometimes feel a bit forced and awkward, the sentiment is sweet, as the focus here never veers from the excitement and love a little boy feels for his tiny new sibling. The charming, uncluttered illustrations convincingly depict the growing bond between this fair-skinned, rosy-cheeked, smiling pair of boys. In the final pages, the parents, heretofore kept mostly out of view, are pictured holding the children. The accompanying text reads: "Mommy, Daddy, baby, me. / We love each other-a family!" In companion volume I Am a Big Sister, the little boy is replaced with a little girl with bows in her hair. Some of the colors and patterns in the illustrations are slightly altered, but it is essentially the same title. A good choice for caregivers looking for a positive, uncomplicated introduction to a new baby that focuses on everything an older sibling can do to help. (Board book. 2-4)

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December 1, 2014

PreS-In this vibrant, rhythmic, and charming picture book, a big brother expresses his joy upon the arrival of his new sibling. He helps whenever he can, and even during unpleasant tasks like diaper changes and naptime, he loves the newcomer. And his parents are proud. Engaging illustrations in watercolor and pastels capture the tenderness of this new family bond. This is an excellent choice for helping older children understand their new role in the family. Short, rhyming sentences make the story a quick read-aloud for group sharing and nap time.-Gwen Collier, Buffalo and Erie County Public Library, NY

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