LISA’S BABY SISTER

Gutman’s saucy bunny (Lisa in New York, not reviewed, etc.) contends with the imminent arrival of a new sibling. Lisa succinctly expresses her displeasure with her mother’s pregnancy. “My mom has been pregnant for a very long time, and I am tired of it. . . . She’s too fat to play on the seesaw with me. There’s a baby in her belly, and I don’t like it.” Traditional methods of soothing a recalcitrant sibling do not work with this precocious tot; Lisa is clearly unimpressed with tales of her older sister Victoria’s jealousy over Lisa’s arrival and eventual acceptance. Lisa’s staunch refusal of being involved with anything baby-related persists even after baby Lila comes home from the hospital. It is not until Lisa overhears a friend remark upon the similarities between Lila and Lisa, that she reevaluates the situation. Gutman strikes just the right balance between belligerence and vulnerability that children often experience when confronted with both the concept and reality of a new sibling. Lisa’s straight-from-the hip talk will resonate with readers, conveying to them that it’s acceptable to feel conflicted about the big change looming in their lives. Hallensleben’s heavily pigmented illustrations artfully capture the sights of urban life. Young Lisa serenely strolls past avant-garde sculptures and dines in outdoor cafes with the aplomb of a city dweller. His deft use of a colorful array of hues draws the reader’s attention. Unerringly honest and every bit hilarious, this is a zesty addition to Gutman and Hallensleben’s popular series. (Picture book. 4-8)