Toes Are to Tickle is a sweet new picture book for babies and toddlers that follows the rhythm of the child’s day – from waking up and eating breakfast to saying goodnight. Shen Roddie’s text highlights things, animals, and people that have an important place in a young child’s world: “a mirror is for making faces,” “flowers are to smell,” and “boxes are to see what’s in them.” Each statement is made from the perspective of a little person curious about the world and determined to find out as much as possible about it.

Adding humour, warmth, and pure joy to the text are Kady MacDonald Denton’s lovely illustrations, which capture the energy and wonder that young children bring to even the most ordinary activity, such as chasing birds or pushing a stroller. Think of Helen Oxenbury’s books for babies, add brighter colours and more detailed backgrounds, and you’ve got an idea of the look and feel of Toes Are to Tickle. The two main characters – a boy about a year old and a girl of about three – are a delight. Their love for life and affection for one another leap off the pages as they chase, play games, and share meals together. Two parents appear on some pages but the children are in the spotlight on every page.

Colourful yet realistic, detailed yet simple, these watercolour illustrations are sure to appeal to a young audience. Kady MacDonald Denton has captured the joy of childhood – even the book’s endpapers are fun to look at.