This New Baby. Teddy Jam. Illustrated by Virginia Johnson. Toronto, ON: Groundwood/House of Anansi Press, 2011. 22 pp., board, $8.95. ISBN 978-1-55498-088-8. Preschool / Birth-age 3. Review by Trevor Lockhart. *** /4

excerpt:

This new baby sleeps in my arms like a moon sleeping on a cloud, like apples falling through the rain, like a fish swimming through the sky...

The simple experience of holding a newborn baby in your arms is described beautifully by Teddy Jam [pseudonym of the late Matt Cohen] in this poetic picture book. Teddy Jam has written an unusual set of verses that somehow effectively work as a lullaby. Many of the early experiences of a newborn are covered, from sleeping in someone's arms, to waking up with a cry that's strong enough to chase away old ghosts, to a morning stroll and the simple joy of searching for toes.

     This New Baby would be a welcome addition to any newborn's collection of "sleepy time" books. My two-year-old daughter also enjoys listening to the story and pointing out the pictures of the baby throughout.

      Originally published in 1998, this re-release is paired with soft watercolour paintings by textile artist Virginia Johnson. Johnson's artwork seems to be influenced by Henri Matisse and complements the text beautifully.

Recommended.

Trevor Lockhart is a public librarian in Winnipeg. MB.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright � the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

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