You’ll Always Be My Baby

You’ll Always Be My Baby by Jessica Urlichs, illustrated by Jedda Robaard (Penguin Random House) HB RRP $19.99 ISBN: 9781761355714

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

When a mother holds her newborn, she makes a promise: ‘You’ll always be my baby’. As the little one grows and becomes more independent, the parent–child bond strengthens through love and devotion. The bond never breaks, even when the child becomes an adult and the mother is ‘grey and old’.

Jessica Urlichs’ much-loved poem transforms beautifully into a tender and thoughtful picture book, reminding readers of any age that families are built on a foundation of affection, support and constancy, especially on ‘those harder days’. The importance of belonging shines like a beacon, drawing all into the harbour of familial happiness.

The muted colours in Jedda Robaard’s sweet illustrations wonderfully complement the gentle nature of the text. There are lovely visual links between the characters –including arms outstretched towards toddling steps, dandelion-clasping hands and lamp-lit eyelines – ensuring that relationships remain robust from page to page.

An ideal gift to celebrate the arrival of a new baby, or an emotional book for a parent to share with their youngster, You’ll Always Be My Baby will pluck the heartstrings every time it’s read. This is a book to turn to at bedtime, or when a crisis calls for a cuddle and a few calming words.