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Review: I Am a Baby



By Bob Shea 
Candlewick Press, 2022. Picture Book. 

In this cause and effect book readers will learn all the things that happen…because the main character is a baby. From Mommy being sleepy to Kitty hiding, things are all happening because of the baby. Shea’s illustrations show more details into the various causes (like baby trying to grab kitty). The repetition of the phrase “because I am a baby” will invite young listeners to join in with the refrain. The bright colors and comical, illustrated moments (I especially enjoyed the spreads of why Daddy is clumsy or why Grandma is smiley) make this a comical romp for all those older readers who have had these sorts of moments because of their own babies. Expect a snort or chuckle from older readers while younger ones will giggle at the power a baby has over a household. Well done, Mr. Shea. Well done.

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