FICTION

This Is the First Book I Will Read to You

by Francesco Sedita (text) & illus. by Magenta Fox
Viking. May 2023. 32p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593405055.
COPY ISBN
PreS-K–A new father is nervous about reading a bedtime story to his child for the first time. However, as he prepares the child for bedtime and to read, the love he has for the newborn becomes expansive, and a glimpse of their future unfolds. Sedita has created a lovely story that is easy to follow and will inspire much empathy from listeners. The text is clear and simple, repeatedly emphasizing how this is the first book the father is reading and tallying emotions in a variety of ways, but always using simple vocabulary. Fox’s illustrations are beautiful, helping to show readers the story the father is walking into, but also how he is feeling about his new child.
VERDICT Sedita and Fox have created a wistful story reminiscent of many childhood favorites, but this time from a father’s perspective and including his future hopes of closeness with his child.
Reviewed by Margaret Kennelly , Jun 01, 2023

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