Review of Animals: Animales (Bright Baby) (English and Spanish Edition)
As a mom, I often find myself in a nightly ritual that can feel like a chaotic game of “Will They Go to Sleep?” Between the whispers, giggles, and family stories, making time for reading is like capturing lightning in a bottle. So, on one particularly bustling evening, I decided to pull out Animals: Animales by Roger Priddy. With its gorgeous photos and bilingual approach, I thought it might just hit the sweet spot of educational fun and bedtime tranquility.
This delightful book features a variety of animals, each clearly pictured against a vibrant background, with their names boldly displayed in both English and Spanish. It’s simple yet effective—perfect for the ages of my curious toddlers, who can jump from giggly animal noises to sweetly asking, “¿Dónde está el gato?” (“Where is the cat?”) while flipping through the thick, sturdy pages.
What I love most about this book is how it fosters engagement. My three-year-old was completely immersed, identifying animals and mimicking their sounds, from the soft mew of a kitten to the playful bark of a dog. Meanwhile, my one-year-old, with his chubby little fingers, eagerly turned the pages, sometimes giggling at the “pato” (duck) that quacked adorably. Their reactions were priceless; I couldn’t help but snap a few pictures of my little ones having their own mini animal safari right on our living room floor.
The illustrations in Animals: Animales are a breath of fresh air. Unlike their cartoon counterparts, the real-life photos make the animals feel tangible and relatable, allowing my kids to connect with what they’re seeing. There’s a genuine excitement as they spot familiar animals, and I found myself swept up in their enthusiasm. During one reading session, as we landed on the elephant, my littlest exclaimed, “Big, mama!”—a simple affirmation of learning that warmed my heart.
Moreover, the bilingual format feels like a gift that keeps on giving. As a family that loves to embrace various cultures, I appreciate how this book introduces Spanish in an organic way, sparking conversations about language, diversity, and even new words in English. My older child often chimes in with a proud “¡Mira!” (“Look!”) whenever she spots an exciting animal, and it opens the door to so many avenues of exploration.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Animals: Animales to parents of children aged one to three. It’s perfect for animal lovers, bilingual families, or anyone looking to nourish a toddler’s budding curiosity. After sharing so many cozy moments with this book, it has certainly nestled its way into our hearts and will remain a beloved part of our bedtime routine. Plus, the sturdy pages can withstand even the most enthusiastic snuggles, making it a perfect fit for little hands. Grab a copy and get ready for some giggles and wild adventures—your little ones will thank you! 🐾📚
Explore the wonderful world of animals in English and Spanish! >>
