June 15, 2021
In this latest addition to the Baby Loves Political Science series (a spinoff of Baby Loves Science), a toddler discovers the duties of the United States president. Jumper-wearing Baby, a confident preschooler with light-brown skin and hair pulled back in a bun, learns about leadership with Papa, who has slightly lighter skin than his offspring. Papa's job running a food pantry is somewhat inexplicably compared to that of the U.S. president, shown here as a woman with silver hair and the same complexion as Baby. The straightforward text explains simple civic concepts in two or three sentences per double-page spread, running through the three branches of government, presidential responsibilities, Cabinet positions, and the electoral process. Diverse representation abounds, with governmental officials of a variety of skin colors; some wear hijabs, turbans, or head scarves, and others use wheelchairs or forearm crutches. Companion title Congress! publishes simultaneously and introduces a different preschooler named Baby to explain the legislative branch of government. This tot and an unidentified caregiver, both with dark-brown skin and curly, brown hair, write their congressperson urging support for environmental protection legislation. In both books, the cartoon art uses subtly textured, vivid colors to illustrate this sunny, optimistic world. As with much of the series, the explanations and scenarios are pitch-perfect for preschoolers but, like Air Force One, will fly over the heads of actual babies. The "Baby" branding and format may confuse many buyers; these simple civics lessons work best for preschoolers and up. (Board book. 3-5)
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