'Big Fat Hen' adds pictures to the old counting rhyme.

'Goodnight Moon' has been a classic for many years.

Books make perfect presents for babies

Date published: 4/10/2007

" READING WITH Babies, Toddlers and Twos" by Susan Straub and KJ Dell'Antonia would make a perfect new-baby gift, along with a copy of "Mother Goose" and "Goodnight Moon."

The authors draw on their own parenting experiences, their professional lives (Straub runs a program that encourages teen parents to read with their babies, Dell'Antonia is a writer), and myriad interviews with librarians, teachers and booksellers to present up-to-date, accessible information about reading with the youngest children.

The first chapter sets the tone--practical, reality-based and humorous--as the authors contrast the vision an expectant parent might have of reading to baby with what actually happens.

Rather than quietly drifting off to sleep as you snuggle her close and read a bedtime story, your baby may insist on holding the book upside down, listen happily for two pages before heading off to play with a toy, or chew on a corner of it as you do your best to get through the last few pages.

Nevertheless, the authors urge parents to smile, breathe and persevere. To make it easier, they fill the book with lists: "Ten Picture Books We Dare You Not to Enjoy," "Binkys, Blankies, and Stuffies: Books about First Friends," even "Well, WE Think These are Funny."

Each chapter ends with "Ages and Stages," a quick overview of what to expect and activities you can do to build on children's abilities. A chapter on screen time (TV, computers, etc.) and how to use books for the big issues (potty training, big kid beds, etc.) round out a useful, easy-to-read book that should be well-thumbed by the time the baby turns 3.

Keith Baker's picture books are just right for this age group. "Big Fat Hen," his lavishly illustrated version of the old counting rhyme, is a staple at the library's Mother Goose Time programs, and his new book promises to be equally popular.

Date published: 4/10/2007