What do you call your Mum? by Ashleigh Barton and Martina Heiduczek

In every country around the world are mums – some short, some tall
Though they go by different names, we love them all.
A Mummy here, a Mama there, or maybe she’s a Ma.
Turn the page, let’s meet some of the greatest, near and far.

And so begins this delightful new rhyming picture book, honouring Mums from around the world.  Some of the Mums introduced include Okaasan from Japan. She is a Mum who loves to compete in running events with family supporting her. Anyu from Hungary loves browsing in vintage shops. Aiti from Finland loves nothing better than playing with her child. The final Mum is Miimi, a Gumbaynggir mother who is from Australia’s Mid North Coast region. She loves spending time by the tranquil sea.

The colourful, detailed illustrations capture the joy of each Mum spending time with her family. Each page shares warmth and connection. It is especially wonderful to see Mums represented from all walks of life, each engaged in different activities that reflect their unique personalities and experiences. This inclusive approach enables many readers to see themselves and their families reflected in these moments.

There are so many Mums introduced to young readers in What Do You Call Your Mum? and they all have one thing in common; they love spending time with their family. The extra information in the final pages allows this book to provide interesting teaching and learning moments.

Themes: Mothers, Multiculturalism, Languages, Countries, Family, Rhyming.

Kathryn Beilby