So Loved: Baby's High-Contrast Board Book

Baby's First Moments

by Emily Barton

22 pages, Board Book

Published January 27, 2026

Reviews

[Theediscerning · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of those books for almost the youngest reader imaginable, those who are yet to get prepared for a lifetime of holding books and knowing what they can give. Here it's a few examples of occasions when we bond – either with the cat in the household or with our parents over the creation of a new family portrait. Either way we end up, with the help of the briefest of rhyming texts, knowing we're loved. I still think that love would be better off shown in colour rather than the dramatic black and white, but this is helpful for baby eyes, apparently, and who am I to deny that, when nothing like an expert. It's certainly a very decent and competent board book, and the art is very good for all its colourlessness.

[Suman Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

"So Loved" is a beautiful, short family story about a mother's unconditional love and the challenges of parenting. The characters feel real, and the emotions hit home – especially for Indian readers who value family bonds.

What I loved:
- Heartwarming without being cheesy
- Relatable struggles and small victories
- Perfect length for a cozy evening read

A must for parents and anyone who believes in second chances. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

#SoLoved #FamilyDrama #NetGalley

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to be added to Amazon UK and US on 27 January 2026 - publication day!

I really loved this book!

I have previously bought a similar book for my young nephew in the past and he really enjoyed that but this one is longer and I will be honest, it is much better than that one I purchased for him. This has some lovely illustrations, it is a great way to start to introduce words and pictures and it is perfect for the age range.

It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended!

[Miri ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read So Curious by Emily Barton with my little one, so I couldn’t resist picking up So Loved, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It carries the same gentle, sweet tone and features beautiful black-and-white illustrations that feel both calming and engaging. I especially loved how timeless the images are, making this a book you can enjoy with your baby at every stage, from newborn cuddles to curious little hands turning the pages. It’s a simple yet meaningful read that celebrates connection and love in the softest way.

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot of high contrast books out there but I especially liked this one because it did not feel like random images put together but a story about what a baby can get around to doing on any given day. Would very much recommend this one to my friends with newborns!

Thank you to NetGalley, Emily Barton, and Free Spirit Publishing for this free, advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

This book will be published January 27, 2026.

[Sally Wilsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

So Loved by Emily Barton

This is a black and white rhyming book about babies and how they are loved.
It is a great way to introduce words into a baby vocabulary. Also would work as an early reader for the beginning reader.
The illustrations are cute and can be used to name objects.
This is great book for babies and toddlers.

[Nitoy Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far this is my favorite in the series. Again I'm treated with a black and white artwork that connects. The cuteness never rubs off just because of the dual colors. The text is heartwarming even it is just short.

[Francis Tapon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black & white books are perfect for infants under 6 months old.
This 22-page book is simple, which is just what an infant needs.
SPOILER: The punch line is "WE LOVE YOU!"
The criticism is that it feels a bit disjointed, rather than a continuous story that builds on itself.
But I'm being picky.

[Zelie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love it, especially the parental advisory to read the book.
I hope the printed edition has texture or any other feature for interactive story.

[Tiffany Seward · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ Children’s Book | Interactive

Thank you to Free Spirit Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!

So Loved is a high-contrast baby book featuring large, easy-to-read text paired with clean, vector-style illustrations. Some of the text rhymes, adding a playful rhythm that makes reading aloud enjoyable.

Compared to other high-contrast baby books I’ve read, this one stands out for its variety in both text and imagery, the graphics aren’t just repeated with slight changes, giving each page a fresh and engaging look.

I also appreciated that Emily included extra instructions for parents on how to use the book as a learning and bonding tool, making it a thoughtful guide for interaction with little ones.
So Loved is a visually appealing and versatile book that combines developmental benefits with a heartfelt message, perfect for parents looking to engage and connect with their babies.