Not Yet, Rose
PreSchool-K—Every morning, a young hamster races into her parents' bedroom and asks, "Is the baby here yet?" and each time they answer, "Not yet." Rose can't decide whether she wants a sister or a brother, and at one point she decides that she doesn't want a baby at all, but her mother brings her around to the idea that she'll probably like being a big sister. Dad describes the nurturing that babies require and reminds his daughter that she was once an infant who needed and received loving care, too. When a brother is born, she carefully holds him, marvels at how tiny he is, and sings to him until he falls asleep in her arms. The book ends neatly with Rose's parents asking if her arms are tired and she replies, "Not yet." Hill presents adults who encourage their daughter to process her feelings and come to her own conclusions. The narrative's pacing and structure are ideal, with the story and life lessons beginning on Monday and ending on Friday. Rutten's cheery watercolor illustrations, depicting the hamsters' life in their cozy country cottage and later in the hospital, are infused with subtle, appropriate humor. With its thoughtful text and playful art, this book gently helps older siblings confidently adjust to their new roles.—Shawn Brommer, South Central Library System, Madison, WIEND