Selections are based on the strength and clarity of the story, quality of illustrations and design, and genuine appeal to children or young adults. We realize there are many other terrific books published in 1999 available. This is only a sampling, and we have made our choices thoughtfully and with Globe readers in mind. Publishers and age levels are indicated in parentheses. A cast of multicultural toddlers marches through lively rhymes and merry illustrations as they point to parts of their bodies.
Hands are to clap, noses to blow, legs to leap, and on they go.
Here is a first-rate choice for story hours. A spirited, fresh version of this timeless lullaby features a howling infant, who refuses to sleep until its entire family is exhausted. But the real show stealer in this domestic dilemma is the baby's sister. Not pleased with the attention her sibling is receiving, she starts a hilarious sequence of events with a deliberate shove to the child's cradle. Strongly delineated illustrations are full of comic details and expressions.