Renae Hayward (text) and Rebecca Mills (illustrator), Say Hooray, Fremantle Press, February 2023, 32 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781760992361
This picture book praises the developmental milestones of toddlers and as such is a highly relatable story for families to share with their young children.
Short, simple and predictable rhyme is used to recount the many exciting achievements celebrated in a young family, such as baby’s first tooth, blowing kisses, waving goodbye and rolling over. The repetition of, Say hooray for… entices young readers to join in with the read either verbally or with actions and anticipate the rhyme that will follow.
This delightful rhythm is coupled with bright digital images, easily eye-catching to a young audience. Illustrator, Rebecca Mills, cleverly uses white space to focus attention on the newly acquired skill of the characters and the large basic designs are well suited to toddlers.
Suitable for toddlers 3 years and under.
Reviewed by Katie Mineeff