Ten babies sport a gamut of expressions.
Clear, close-up photographs of individual children address both their emotions and their actual behavior. The miniature trim size focuses readers' view squarely on the tots' faces and shoulders. Clothing is an afterthought, often not in view. There is ethnic and physical diversity; the open background emphasizes the individual, and there are no overwhelming clues as to the geographic location or economic background. Small font depicts the one word indicative of each toddlers' feelings. Most two-page sequences may be viewed as a pairing of opposites; one side depicts “silly” while the next choice demonstrates “serious.” Eyebrows, noses and mouths display pleasure or unhappiness without guile and with verve; “awake” shows a laughing youngster, eyes twinkling and leaning forward in glee.
Straightforward selections encourage smiles. (Board book. 3 mos.-2)
