The First Gift

What's in a name? The young narrator of this chipper picture book attempts to explain, as he expresses thanks for his own name—David—the first gift his parents gave to him, and which honors his late great-grandfather. Using the biblical king as example, the narrator offers that "His mother called him Davey... His brothers called him Useless... His harp teacher called him Genius... His people called him Your Majesty... his son Solomon just called him Daddy." Readers are then reminded that Adam was charged with naming all the animals and creatures of the new earth and that families in different cultures and countries give their children different names. Though the text does not address name meanings or specific origins (aside from stating that many people are named for figures in the Bible), this book celebrates what a special possession a name is. Lafrance's (Mind Me Good Now: A Caribbean Tale ) creamy acrylic paintings feature fluid, elongated characters and dreamlike background scenes with folk-art-style motifs. A note on Jewish naming customs is included. Ages 3-8. (Sept.)