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PLAY BABY PLAY! by Marilyn Janovitz

PLAY BABY PLAY!

by Marilyn Janovitz & illustrated by Marilyn Janovitz

Pub Date: April 1st, 2012
ISBN: 978-1-4022-6224-1
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky

No need for rain to go away because babies can stay inside and play.

A mom carries her child through the drops to, possibly, day care or maybe a play date with a bevy of multicultural pals. After an enthusiastic greeting, the tyke moves quickly from one toy to the next. The tots pore over books without adult interference and participate in some lighthearted horseplay. Phrases build with a pounding emphasis. “Rolling on the rug / Frolicking on the floor / These little babies want / MORE / MORE / MORE!” The typography and text maintain this repetitive, high intensity even when the little one rests after a day of games. “But day is done / Little one / Naptime is near / BABY /BABY / BABY // Dreamtime is here.” Disproportionately small appendages and an over-large head add a quirky visual flair. The children endearingly bobble about as they struggle for their sense of balance and independence before the main protagonist instantaneously falls asleep (with no sign of a tantrum). A rainbow in the background sweetly signals the end of the rain.

Here's to all the fun without any of the fuss.

(Board book. 6 mos.-3)