Andreae and Dodd team up to create a winning read-aloud for the very young. As it is for most babies and toddlers, mommy is the center of this towheaded tot’s universe. Andreae uses lilting verse as the young narrator takes readers through a typical day with mommy. The title begins with pure adoration: “I love my mommy very much, / She’s great to cuddle, soft to touch.” Soon mother and child are engaged in wiping a nose and tickling toes, singing songs in the car, holding hands, learning to pee, splashing in the tub, reading stories and ending the day with hugs and kisses. Dodd employs her signature style, using thick black lines and saturated bright colors. Her characters and objects fill the page, giving the reader a sense of intimacy. A judicious use of what appears to be red sponge paint adds playful texture in the scene showing the child eating “yummy” but messy spaghetti. In addition, readers can enjoy some interactive fun spotting the child’s purple toy, which is cleverly included on every spread. The large format and warm tone make this truly perfect for little ones. (Picture book. 0-3)
