Issue #0

Arthur's Baby (Arthur Adventures)

Plot

Kindergarten-Grade 3 In this newest addition to the popular series about the amiable young aardvark, young listeners soon discover that Arthur's anxiety over his mother's pregnancy is matched only by his crafty sister D. W.'s enthusiasm. While Arthur frets over the many changes a baby will bring to his life, D. W. happily diapers every doll and stuffed toy in the house. When Baby Kate arrives home from the hospital, Doctor D. W. takes charge. But it is Arthur who comes to the rescue when, in his mother's momentary absence, neither his sister nor his friends (familiar to fans of the series) can stop Kate's tears. Arthur does (burping is the remedy). His fears about his new situation are calmed, and he emerges a small hero. Like its predecessors, Arthur's Baby deals reassuringly with a developmental issue. And like those earlier books, the humor lies in the colorful, sunny illustrations (pen, crayon, and wash), as well as the witty banter between siblings. Combined with a simple, direct style, this has sure-fire appeal for the primary grade set, as well as Arthur addicts of all ages. It should also be of special interest to families expecting a new arrival. Julie Corsaro, University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.