First Morning Sun: A Book of Firsts

Via concise rhymes, Reid narrates a series of childhood firsts, beginning with a newborn’s “First morning sun./ First day begun,” in this joyful ode to milestones both mundane and major. Moving chronologically through traditional year-one signposts such as speech, steps, and a birthday, the book quickly ventures into toddler territory and beyond, celebrating events including “First feeling brave” during a seaside dip and “First scraped-up knee” thanks to a scooter tumble, up until the arrival of “First sibling new/ More firsts for two.” In jubilant scenes, Tsong’s digital illustrations layer thickly outlined, rough-hewn figures with largely fanciful skin tones atop vibrant batik-like patterns. When three kids swing gaily on a tire swing (“First taking flight”), they practically fly off the page. Similarly unadorned and emphatic, text and prose aptly focus attention on many affecting moments of early childhood. Ages up to 8. (May)