Book - Global Babies

Global Fund for Children

Vibrant color photographs of expressive baby faces from 15 countries around the world will fascinate young children and turn this joyous little book into an instant favorite. Text is a sweet, simple verse offering glimpses into the daily life, traditions, and clothing of babies from around the world. Purchases of this celebration of global heritage support the Global Fund for Children.

Ages Birth-4. Boardbook. 6x6”, 16 pp., 2006.

Striking in its simplicity and effectiveness, this colorful board book takes into account two fundamental facts. First, babies like to look at faces, particularly the faces of other babies. Second, today's babies will grow up in a world that is, increasingly, a global neighborhood. This introduces young children to their neighbors throughout the world by providing clear photographs of babies in Guatemala, Thailand, Greenland, Mali, the U.S., India, South Africa, Fiji, Peru, Afghanistan, Malawi, Spain, Iraq, Rwanda, and Bhutan.

Each page features a single child in a photo shown against a rich, solid background color. Appearing phrase by phrase at the bottom of the pages, the book's complete text reads, "Wherever they live, / wherever they go, / whatever they wear, / whatever they feel, / babies everywhere / are beautiful, / special, / and loved." Attuned to its audience, the book's close-ups emphasize the children's faces and create a feeling of connection between subject and viewer. In an era when board books too often recycle picture book stories intended for older children, here's one that is just right for babies and toddlers. 
                                                         –Carolyn Phelan, Booklist