I'm ready for my birthday by Jedda Robaard
Penguin Random House Australia, 2020. ISBN: 9781760895969.
(Ages: 2-4) Recommended. This is one of the latest in a beautiful
series of board books illustrated by Australian artist Jedda
Robaard. Featuring cute Australian animals the I'm Ready
series talks children through exciting milestones and events
(previous publications include I'm
Ready for Easter and I'm
Ready for the New Baby). These are fantastic
toddler books that bridge the gap between first concept books and
longer narrative books. They also look and feel distinctly
Australian and their relevance to the lives of the target audience
make them engaging and meaningful. They are perfect for reading to
young children in the lead up to specific events but will also be
enjoyed year round as they cover subjects that young children just
love!
I'm Ready for my Birthday follows a little penguin preparing
for its third birthday. Told in first person we hear the excitement
of the penguin ('I can't wait!') as well as other emotions ('I feel
lucky', 'I feel a bit shy with everyone looking at me', 'I wonder
what's going to happen'). All the parts of a birthday at this age
are simply covered: birthday parties, decorations, party food (fairy
bread), social conventions (friends and family saying happy birthday
and thanking guests for birthday presents), birthday cakes, singing
happy birthday and blowing out candles. This is a great primer for
children who might be a bit anxious or unsure about what birthday
parties entail (both their own and attending others) and for
reinforcing positive social interactions. It also helps children
find the language they need to talk about their own feelings.
Themes: Birthdays, Board book.
Nicole Nelson