So Much by Trish Cooke

One by one, family members drop by on a mum and her tot – all wanting to squeeze, kiss and give undivided attention to the baby. When Dad finally homes home to a surprise birthday party, the house erupts in celebration and love. It's a night that the baby never wants to end...

This picture book is adorable: from the wonderful palette of autumnal colours (browns, taupes, russet and oranges) to the baby realising that everyone wants him 'Because they loved him so much'. It really gets to the joyful essence of a new baby and all the ways an arrival brings together a family. The double-page spread of everyone dancing with Daddy just overflows with happiness. 

The text is also brilliant – written in an easy, sing-song rhythm that is fun to say aloud. It's refreshing to see it capture the cadence of an Afro-Caribbean family, with Trish Cooke writing the language as it would be spoken. It's a brilliant way for all parents and carers to talk about different cultures with children. 

High-spirited, vibrant and fun.