A Band of Babies

Baby-Toddler—A nursery school class of babies are fretful during a morning playgroup until a newcomer named Benny arrives. Benny rallies the now excited troops, and, as the title suggests, they form a makeshift band. Cheerfully marching with instruments, the babies parade around town, including to the market, where they get some snacks and cause some light mischief, before growing tired. The story concludes with the sleepy babies heading back to their nursery school, returning their instruments, and snuggling together for a nap. This adorable title makes for an engaging read, particularly for toddlers. While lively, the book never feels too frenetic or raucous. Gerber writes succinctly, with short, bouncy rhymes that fit well with the musical theme. Dyer's gentle illustrations, created using colored pencils and featuring several spreads, are detailed, with warm, muted colors and soft lines. The cast of babies are happily diverse, and Benny, the leader of the babies' band and the only child named in the story, is African American. While the little ones march throughout town, their adult caretaker is depicted alongside them, ensuring that they have safe travels.