Brandon and the Baby

Caldecott Honor–winning artist and Coretta Scott King Award winner Brian Pinkney explores sibling rivalry with humor, love, and emotional depth in this action-packed story about Brandon and his new baby brother. Perfect for readers of Julius, the Baby of the World, by Kevin Henkes, as well as families welcoming a new sibling.

Brandon loves his special blanket, but he isn’t too sure about his new baby brother. When it’s time for supper, a bath, and bed, the baby steals all the attention. Brandon is not happy. In fact, he’s very, very angry. Luckily, Brandon’s blanket (or is it Brandon?) has a few ideas to make everything better.

From Caldecott Honor–winning artist and Coretta Scott King Award winner Brian Pinkney, this exuberant, emotionally true, and insightful picture book celebrates a young child’s imagination, being a big brother, and welcoming a new family member. With an expressive, pitch-perfect text and bold, energetic illustrations, Brandon and the Baby is a standout choice for families, classroom sharing, and for social and emotional learning.

“Pinkney carries on his family’s legacy for thoughtful children’s literature and gorgeous art in this heartwarming story about Brandon, a new older brother adjusting to the new baby in the house. . . . The pastel palette and free-spirited art style showcase Brandon’s creativity and the lack of restrictions on his imagination. Perfect for young readers who are adapting to little siblings and the loss of attention, helping them understand that their parents still love them just as much as before.” - Booklist

“A young Black boy, negotiates his new status as big sibling after a baby brother arrives on the scene. . . . Children with younger siblings will identify with how hard it is to go from being the center of attention to feeling overlooked. . . . A welcome refresh of a familiar family dynamic, with the best possible outcome.” - Kirkus Reviews

“The situation [in Brandon and the Baby] is of course hugely relatable, and readers and listeners will be drawn in further by the liberal sprinkling of chantable sounds throughout the text. Pinkney’s signature art, created with India ink, opaque watercolors, and acrylics, is all movement and swooping lines and adds even more energy and ­dynamism.” - Horn Book Magazine

“Through demonstrations of preparation, routine, praise, and love, the title serves as a valuable supplement to manage emotions, attachment stages, bonding practices, and acceptance for children struggling with jealousy and aggression after the arrival of a younger sibling.” - School Library Journal