Za-Za’s Baby Brother
Lucy Cousins

Candlewick Press
June 2012/ ISBN 9780763661243
Picture book, siblings (ages 2-5)
Amazon

Reviewed by Bob Walch

Here’s the ideal picture book for a child who may be having a little problem sharing parental time with a new sibling in the household. Za-Za has been an only child and she’s not totally thrilled when her little brother arrives on the scene. Mom and Dad are very busy and don’t have time to do the things they use to do with Za-Za.

Finally, Za-Za’s patience wears so thin she says, “Mom! I want a hug NOW!”

When her mother replies, “Why don’t you hug the baby?”, Za-Za realizes she can take a role in taking care of her little brother. Soon she is pushing him in his stroller and playing on the floor with him. Za-Za discovers her little brother is fun and she also enjoys taking care of him.

This is a reassuring book for older children with younger brothers or sisters. Giving the child a little responsibility will make him or her feel more adult and an important part of the family.

First released in a hardback copy, this delightful story is back in an inexpensive paper version. The large format makes it ideal for lap sharing.