Given the many people who love and nurture a newborn, this picture book is a deserving testament to the extended family at the core of a child's universe. Shapiro's (Up, Up, Up! It's Apple-Picking Time
) singsong text consists of simple, short verses that detail each family member's designated role in baby's life, followed by the repeated anthem “We all love Baby. Yes we do!” Whether it's mommy feeding baby a bottle or grandpa giving a piggy-back ride, each job is unique, yet shares the common thread of doing everything humanly possible to make baby happy. Felstead (Big Wolf and Little Wolf
) depicts these caregivers at work in separate circles, drawing readers' eyes to each person, one by one. The text adheres to a steady pattern and rhythm—youngsters will relish the repetition. By story's end, it's no wonder that the “sleepy family” members all have their eyes shut tight. The final page, showing a satisfied and beaming baby, summarizes the result of all their hard work—and the goal of any new parent. Ages 0-4. (May)
