So Much

My 1st great granddaughter was born, I simply had to purchase this lovely book. Every time a child was born in our house, somebody, friends or family had to come to take a peak. I had forgotten about this lovely book. thanks for reminding me. Think I may purchase it again.

This book has been a family favorite for over 11 years. I first purchased this book for my son when he was 1 and am now reading it to my 2 year old daughter. My son still recalls the story, beautiful pictures but most of all family members and myself reading it to him time and time again. My daughter is now experiencing the same warm expressions of "family love" and beautiful pictures of an African American family celebrating a birthday but most of all being together. This book has become my daughter's favorite and she picks it up at least 4-5 times a day to be read. I've bought another copy just so she can have her own. My son has told me he wants to be keep his copy of the book so that he will be able to read this wonderful book to his own children.

This book is loved and enjoyed by my students (1st and 2nd grades)each and every year. The rhythm and repeat of Ms. Cooke's words captivate and charm. They are tickled with the antics of the family as they each arrive at the party. We have had great discussions about the choice of play and family differences each member brings to the party. Her message reminds each person listening that they too are loved "so much" by their family.

My son loves this story! He is 14 months old, and we checked this out from the library 3 weeks ago. He has wanted us to read it to him every night before he goes to bed. It's perfect at bedtime, because it ends with the baby going to sleep after the most wonderful day you can imagine. Though it's Daddy's birthday party that's brought everyone to the house, baby is the one that everyone wants to kiss and hug.Helen Oxenbury's illustrations are incredible, the way the people seem to have real weight and personality. I especially love the baby, and there's one drawing of him holding his teddy bear, wrapped in his blanket, with his thumb in his mouth, which is EXACTLY the way my son looks when he's tired and sleepy, getting ready for bed. Of course, my son's Asian/Jewish, not African American, but this book is truly universal.

My two year old absolutely loves this book! It was the first book he received 2 years ago and he really enjoys all the characters, especially Nannie, Gran Gran and Big Cousin Ross. I do change the language a little bit so that it's gramatically correct, but once I got over that obstacle, I really love it too. And we do read it every night. As a matter of fact, I had to order another copy because the first one got torn up by my son's little hands. Excellent addition to any library.

I have a habit of browsing bookstores in every place I visit and selecting a book each for my daughter (age 5) and son (age 1). I picked this book up in CA and loved it immediately! I knew it would be a hit with both the kids and it was. My son completely identifies with the "baby" and loves to point to him on every page. At the end of the story we all hug, kiss, and try to eat him! I am sending copies to my best friends. It's always great to see a lovable African-American tale.