Belly Button Book! (Boynton on Board) – A Delightful Read for Little Ones
As a mom, those moments when I can snuggle up with my children and escape into a story are truly precious. The other night, after what felt like an endless whirlwind of cooking, cleaning, and bedtime negotiations, I found myself in our cozy reading nook with my two little ones. They were wound up from the day, and my usual mantra of “Let’s read a book to wind down!” fell on eager ears. That’s when I reached for Belly Button Book! by Sandra Boynton—a story I hoped might bring some giggles amidst the chaos.
Sandra Boynton has a knack for writing books that are not just engaging but also infused with joy and silliness. In Belly Button Book!, she introduces us to a group of adorable, bare-bellied hippos who are absolutely enamored with their belly buttons, particularly a charming little baby hippo who can’t stop squeaking "BEE BO!" My daughter’s eyes lit up as soon as she saw the cover, shaped like a belly button itself (what a clever touch!), and my little boy clapped his hands in excitement!
The playful rhymes and colorful illustrations are perfect for holding their attention. They both giggled uncontrollably at the sight of the plump hippos prancing around like they’re having the time of their lives. As I read the line, “Belly, belly button, you’re oh so fine!”, my daughter chimed in with her best rendition of “BEE BO!” and we couldn’t help but burst into laughter. It’s moments like these—joyful, silly, and full of life—that make reading aloud such a treasured part of parenting.
One of the standout features for me was how this book beautifully blends fun with education. It opens the door for conversations about body parts and self-identity, helping my little ones learn in such an entertaining way. My daughter, who is two and quite obsessed with her own belly button lately, pointed to the hippos and shouted, “Just like me, Mommy!” Watching her connect with the story made my heart swell.
My son, at just under a year, may not fully grasp the narrative yet, but he loves the bright colors and the rhythmic sounds of my voice as I read. When I reached the end, he peeked around the pages with wide-eyed wonder, as if begging for "more, more!"
Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend Belly Button Book! for toddlers from age one to three, or really any little one who craves a splash of silliness in their reading routine. Whether you’re a seasoned Boynton fan or new to her work, this book is bound to charm not just your kids but also the "big kids" at heart. It has certainly earned its place in our nightly lineup: a delightful little escape that reminds us all to embrace the quirks of our bodies—especially those oh-so-fascinating belly buttons.
So, if you’re looking for a cheerful addition to your family library or a perfect baby shower gift, this one gets my seal of approval. After all, nothing spreads joy quite like a tiny hippo singing about belly buttons! 🦙💖
