Little Poems for Tiny Ears

* “Everything about this book is child friendly, beginning with its wrap construction, the covers hugging the inside contents. . . . Highly readable poems about almost every familiar aspect of a young child’s life. . . . The words work in perfect tandem with dePaola’s happy art. . . . Framed to highlight chubby babies and toddlers of all ethnic backgrounds at the center of their world, being active and being loved.” — Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

* “In his distinctively serene illustrations, dePaola portrays children with rounded faces and smiling eyes as they navigate their environments and engage in familiar activities. . . . An ethnically diverse cast of children and the ubiquity of delights that range from beloved pets to a father’s scratchy beard give this warmhearted collection broad appeal.” — Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

* “Oliver pens a set of poems tailor-made for tiny ears and minds. . . . Spun with whimsy. . . . The poems compel gentle caresses and interaction between adult and child. Varied rhythm and rhyme schemes enrich a baby’s exploration of sound at the time when his or her developing mind needs it most. DePaola’s round-faced babes . . . wrap readers in warmth, while the square frames and initial letters mimic childhood blocks, bringing a touch of comfort and nostalgia to the package. A tenderly crafted collection that captures the joyous individual moments of infant discoveries.” — Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

“Tongue-in-cheek humor. . . . Rhythmic verses address subjects of interest to preschoolers from nose to toes and are perfect for reading aloud. . . . Occasional wordplay reminiscent of classic tongue twisters peppers the text. . . . Adults will recognize universal childhood experiences. . . . A multiethnic cast of charming, cheerful children.” — School Library Journal