Surprise Soup Book

Mama had a baby last night. “Is it a boy or a girl?” I ask Daddy. “It's a surprise, Kevie,” he says. “You'll fi nd out when they come home.” “When is that?” I ask. “Tonight,” says Daddy.

Kevie is excited that he'll no longer be the littlest. Little brothers get teased. Little brothers make messes. Big brothers help out. Big brothers know how to do things. Daddy, big brother Josh, and Kevie are making Mama's special soup to welcome her and the new baby home. But only Kevie knows the secret ingredient.

Absolutely irresistible illustrations and a funny, read-aloud text make this book just right for little brothers, big brothers—and their parents.

Children's Literature

Kevie is excited because he has a new baby brother and will not be the littlest anymore. Big brothers, like himself, help out. His big brother, Josh, always says, "You are too little." So, Kevie decides to make a special soup to welcome Mama and the baby home. Only he knows the secret ingredient. The pictures look very much right for a boy focused story. Children (and we) will be able to identify with the illustrations and the story—it is about real family relationships. This book makes a great family read because all are involved and supported. Also, it is a good support for loving (and all) families. The illustrations by G. Brian Karas are perfect for the story. Even the low-key illustrations carry the mood and actions and thoughts of this very good book for young children. It is an excellent choice for public and school libraries as well as for personal purchase. Reviewer: Naomi Butler