Celebrate the Bond Between Mother and Child
By Jane Yolen, Illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
Random House Books for Young Readers, $7.99, 26 pages
“Hush little baby, don’t say a word. Papa’s gonna buy you a mockingbird.” Most people are very familiar with this Mother Goose rhyme. Caldecott-award-winning author Jane Yolen has created a lovely bedtime story based on the classic rhyme starring sweet mother horses and their babies. The sturdy board book will hold up to multiple reading request – sleepy kids will want to hear this lyrical story over and over again! Children enjoy discovering that even animals have loving, nurturing relationships with their parents.
Ruth Sanderson’s tranquil, lovely illustrations feature life-like, beautiful horses. A young filly nuzzles safely by her mother’s side as in a sun-dappled field of bronze wheat. “Hush, little horsie, asleep on the plain. Your mama will shade you from sunshine and rain.” Mommy horse stands watch as her precious baby naps. Nearby, cows graze on tender grass, butterflies flit past and the red barn stand proudly in the distance. “Hush, little horsie, asleep on the farm. Your mama is near and will keep your from harm.”
With just a few tender words, Yolen captures the unbreakable bond between mother and child – one that exists for humans as well as animals. Mother’s Day is coming up and Hush, Little Horsie would make an excellent gift for any new mom, especially if it is given from their newest little bundle of joy. Together mom and baby will cherish the time they share reading this special book together. Add Hush, Little Horsie to your home library and it will surely become a favorite.
Reviewed by Kathryn Franklin
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