Dream Big, Little Scientists: a bedtime book by Michelle Schaub. Illustrated by Alice Potter. unpgd. Charlesbridge, February, 2020. 9781580899345. (Review of finished copy courtesy of publisher.)
A diverse and bright-eyed bunch of budding scientists get ready for bed in this clever and colorful bedtime story that not only encourages sleepiness but an interest in science. The gently rolling rhyme pleasantly lulls. Each double-page spread features a young scientist in his or her science-themed bedroom. If young readers don't pick up on the visual clues, a page of thumbnail boxes identify the scientific fields each aspires to with the encouragement to be curious. But really, take some time to linger. The details are delightful.
I just loved this book. Dream Big, Little Scientists definitely belongs in the bedtime reading rotation. Encourage curiosity! Nurture your little scientists!
Every time I see a meme on social media with three owls (and you'd be surprised how many times I do), I always think of the book, Owl Babies by Martin Waddell. This precious picture book was a favorite of my sons when they were small.
Owl Babies by Martin Waddell. Unpgd. Candlewick Press, October, 1992. 9781564021014. (Purchased)
Sarah, Percy and Bill wake up one night to discover their mother is GONE! Sarah, the eldest, takes charge and immediately begins reassuring her younger siblings. Percy goes along a bit reluctantly but Bill just continually exclaims, "I want my mommy!" The text is reassuringly repetitive and reflects a common childhood fear, separation anxiety.
Soothing and humorous as the text is, it's the illustrations that take center stage. The textured cross-hatching is quite lovely as the three little owlets cower on their branch in the dark of night. The owlets look real enough but also like they'd be having a conversation about their missing mama.
I often include a either a board book or hard covered copy in baby gift book baskets I make for new parents.
