First Times

October 1, 2017

PreS-Gr 1- Every child experiences the pride that comes with completing new tasks for the first time. This book celebrates some of those happy milestones as three children enjoy achievements such as helping mom with shopping, catching a ball, and getting a pet. The illustrations are extremely cheerful with diverse characters appearing legitimately thrilled with each and every triumph. The youngest is especially charming, keeping an eye on the proceedings in exactly the way that toddlers try to keep up with their big brothers and sisters. The text is basic but successful in relaying the children's accomplishments. Some words are a different color, font, or style for emphasis, although the pattern is inconsistent (sometimes the verb, sometimes the noun, sometimes not at all). The story also ends rather abruptly. Overall, the book is a great conversation starter for families looking to celebrate new endeavors. VERDICT An ideal selection for children navigating the new experiences of burgeoning independence.- Alyssa Annico, Youngstown State University, OH

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2017
On the childhood road to independence, first-time accomplishments are lauded as important milestones.A brown-skinned sister and her lighter-skinned brother celebrate their individual first times for a variety of activities such as tying shoes, riding a bike, catching a ball, or swimming a lap while their white baby sibling mostly looks on. The childlike drawings of this round-headed, wide-eyed, multiracial family add to the simplicity of the narrative, which is written in a somewhat uneven rhyme. Each specific accomplishment is highlighted, the key word or words printed in a playful display type within each sentence. "My first run with a kite as it climbs to the sky. / My first wish on a star. My first butterfly." (Here a butterfly lands on the baby's head.) Whether helping with shopping, making dinner, taking care of a new dog, or reading independently, these sibs are proud to exclaim their growth with each new feat. The book ends a bit abruptly with an illustration of the children in a tent happily looking out without a last sentence to close the book with one cohesive statement. Nevertheless, the basic concepts will easily be recognizable by both those who have already achieved and those aspiring to attain each new skill or experience. This celebration of maturation, an ever popular theme, is most notable for the diversity of its characters. (Picture book. 3-6)

COPYRIGHT(2017) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

July 1, 2018
Simple rhymes celebrate the fun of "first times," from playground skills, such as sliding and swinging, to more sophisticated accomplishments: "The first time I play a game that I choose. / The first time I finally tie my own shoes." Cheery watercolor, gouache, and pencil illustrations of proud toddlers should help little ones look forward to learning as they grow.

(Copyright 2018 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)