Oscar's Half Birthday

Graham (Max ) serves up a slice of urban family life—and of birthday cake—in this picture book celebration of Oscar's first half-year. Mom, Dad and almost-four-year-old Millie think that a whole year is too long to wait to mark baby Oscar's milestone. So, Oscar's half-birthday proves the perfect occasion for a party and a picnic in the park. As the traffic and city noises fade away behind them, the family hikes on to find an ideal lunch spot as well as lots of friendly admirers in their fellow park goers. By including cozy details and warm humor, Graham crafts a sunny story brimming with love. His vibrant ink-and-watercolor illustrations, which affectionately depict a youthful biracial family, busy city neighborhoods and an idyllic natural setting, make every scene seem extra inviting. Ages 2-6. (June)