I'm ready for my birthday by Jedda Robaard

Penguin Random House Australia, 2020. ISBN: 9781760895969.
(Ages: 2-4) Recommended. This is one of the latest in a beautiful series of board books illustrated by Australian artist Jedda Robaard. Featuring cute Australian animals the I'm Ready series talks children through exciting milestones and events (previous publications include I'm Ready for Easter and I'm Ready for the New Baby).  These are fantastic toddler books that bridge the gap between first concept books and longer narrative books. They also look and feel distinctly Australian and their relevance to the lives of the target audience make them engaging and meaningful. They are perfect for reading to young children in the lead up to specific events but will also be enjoyed year round as they cover subjects that young children just love!
I'm Ready for my Birthday follows a little penguin preparing for its third birthday. Told in first person we hear the excitement of the penguin ('I can't wait!') as well as other emotions ('I feel lucky', 'I feel a bit shy with everyone looking at me', 'I wonder what's going to happen'). All the parts of a birthday at this age are simply covered: birthday parties, decorations, party food (fairy bread), social conventions (friends and family saying happy birthday and thanking guests for birthday presents), birthday cakes, singing happy birthday and blowing out candles. This is a great primer for children who might be a bit anxious or unsure about what birthday parties entail (both their own and attending others) and for reinforcing positive social interactions. It also helps children find the language they need to talk about their own feelings. Themes: Birthdays, Board book.
Nicole Nelson