I kissed the baby by Mary Murphy

Walker, 2011 (c2003). ISBN 97814063299964.
(0-4) Recommended. A re-issue of an old favourite, I kissed the baby tells of the joy that the farm animals have when a new baby arrives. There is much excitement and talk about the new baby. 'Did you see the baby?' asks one animal. 'Did you tickle the baby?' asks another, and so on until finally the little mouse asks the duck if she has kissed the baby, and the reader finally sees just what the baby looks like.
Perfect to read aloud to very young children or to siblings, who have a new arrival in the house, this story captures beautifully the thrill surrounding a new baby. Murphy gives the listener lots of opportunity to have fun, singing, feeding, and tickling the baby until it finally appears after getting a huge kiss. The rhythm in the story and the repetitive nature of the text are sure to appeal to young children.
The simple illustrations are done primarily in black and white, which is ideal for young eyes. However the book never appears to be dull, as Murphy has used strips of vibrant colour on the edges of her pages as well as on the print.
Large pictures combined with strong emotion make this a joy to read.
Pat Pledger