Kiddy Chronicles

Deborah Dowson is a children’s librarian in Caledon East, Ontario.

This is a keepsake book that allows parents to record the events of
pregnancy, birth, and their child’s first year. There are places for
pictures, fill-in-the-blanks features such as a growth chart and an
immunization schedule, checklists, and advice on such matters as what to
bring to the hospital and how to choose a pediatrician. Another
practical addition is the parents’ section, which includes forms for
the baby’s daily schedule and instructions for the babysitter that may
be photocopied and used as required.

The book is designed with “O” rings so that it will expand to
accommodate the addition of photographs and mementos. The publisher has
acknowledged that the cover is probably not sturdy enough to hold the
contents by marketing a separate case to house the book.

The style of the album is contemporary and playful. The upbeat tone is
evident in the drawings, which feature a baby in cute poses—for
example, holding a cellular phone. The chapter headings and labels are
also designed to resemble an informal scrapbook. Despite the
lighthearted presentation, the amount of detail and the number of topics
included are extensive. For instance, there is a chart of major foods,
date first tried, and baby’s reaction to it.

Kiddy Chronicles would be a fine choice for expectant parents, but not
appropriate as a school or library purchase.