JACOB'S JOURNEY

A premature baby recalls his journey in this debut rhyming picture book based on a true story.

Jacob explains that he is born months too early. After birth, he is taken to a big room where there are “wires and tubes all over the place.” He chronicles his experiences in a hot, bright, clear box where he is hooked up to tubes that help him breathe and eat. Although his parents are sad, they remain hopeful that Jacob will grow healthy. Jacob explains that he needs to stay in the hospital in order to become bigger and stronger. He discusses being frequently tested and examined by nurses. He also sees other mothers, “many of whom often wept.” Eventually, Jacob observes that his mom is beginning to look less unhappy. He is even visited by family members who get to hold him. Now, Jacob asserts, he is big and strong enough to live at home without tubes. Although his life is just beginning, Jacob concludes: “I am mighty, I am fierce, I will continue to fight.” The illustrations here are manipulated family photographs of the pale-skinned Jacob in various circumstances, such as being hooked up to machines and cradled by loved ones. Moniz, Jacob’s mother, provides a succinct depiction of a premature baby’s experience in child-friendly language. The moving tale may be most appreciated by parents and families dealing with babies in a similar situation.

A poignant and concise look at a preemie’s odyssey.