This is the story of my family - first-time Mum, first-time Dad, and me. I'm a first-time baby. We've never done this before... but I think it's all going smoothly.Sometimes parenthood isn't picture-perfect. But from first nappy change to first words, it's full of love, laughter and unexpected moments.
If I have to pick the funniest picture book of the year (children category), this book guarantees a spot in my shortlist. It’s relatable in so many levels, this is a perfect gift for any first-time (or few-time-rounds) parents who needs some humour in life. Two big names for the writers: Biggest Loser’s trainer Tiffiny Hall, and her husband / comedian / radio presenter Ed Kavalee.
But really, this book owes a great deal to its hilarious illustrations. Anil Tortop is no stranger in the illustrators fraternity (her “Meeka” used to be this household’s favourite for a good many months before we had to reluctantly returned the library book). The book plays around with the exaggerated illustrations, and the contrast between the pictures and the texts. “Our first trip was fun. Mum and Dad were very relaxed”. No, they were not relaxed. The illustration shows two nervous parents chaining the baby onto the car seat, attempting to put a helmet on the baby’s. “My Mum was so beautiful”, says the words. Accompanying them is a Mum of messy crazy hair cuddling a baby in nappy. Cute, lovely, sweet, and brings me that “been-through-that” smile. The three-year-old giggles, laughs, but I’m quit sure whether he understands finally how exhausting being parents are!
I love Ed Kavalee, so I better had read this book. I remember Ed and Tiffany presented the book on the project. This kids book had superb pictures, and a great story which would be perfect for first time parents. A great read.