Baby Moses in a Basket by Caryn Yacowitz, Julie Downing
Published by Candlewick Press on March 2, 2021
ISBN: 1536206091
Pages: 32
Goodreads

An age old story from the time of the Pharaohs , about a loving mother who saves her son by tucking him in  a basket and setting him afloat on the Nile river. This creative retelling utilizes poetic/rhyming text along with sumptuous watercolors and rich vocabulary.  The watercolor illustrations are lush , rendered in a rich palette with amazing details that draw you into each page. The pacing is spot on with the short stanzas that maintain a slow easy pace that allows readers to experience each curve of the Nile and root for the baby along with the protective animals watching over the child.

This timeless story  will appeal to children from ages 3 to 8.  A book that lends itself for a lap reading with a young child or as a transition into quiet time.  A strong introduction to our natural world with delightful visuals of unique animals in the world. Also, an overarching theme of love and comfort and the kindness and support of the natural world bringing the story to a satisfying conclusion.   A strong purchase for libraries.  Four stars

Reviewed by Terri Bauld, Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library