Writing a meaningful book for young children about the in utero development of a human baby can be a daunting task, but author Ann Douglas masters the challenge. With an enthusiastic voice, Douglas directly addresses the reader as she explains how babies grow, gain nourishment, sleep, move, and react to light and sound while in the womb. By using frequent comparisons to everyday objects and experiences that children are familiar with, the author makes it easy for readers to understand what it’s like to grow inside their mother. This same practical approach extends to the circular sidebars, which alternate between “Did You Know?” facts and simple hands-on activities appropriate to a young audience. Thus, Douglas likens the sounds an unborn baby hears to the swishing of a dishwasher, and the vernix, which protects a baby’s skin, to an excessive coating of sunscreen. Although biological terms like placenta, amniotic fluid, and uterus are included, they are used in simple sentences with clear explanations.

However, this book should be read and discussed with a parent even if a child can read it independently. Sharing the book will allow children to have their many questions answered about the content and how it relates to themselves or an expected sibling. It will also reveal a number of surprising facts that even experienced parents might not be familiar with. For example, did you know that fully developed babies drink about three cups of amniotic fluid a day? Large coloured illustrations and photographs enhance but don’t overwhelm the text.