Watch My Baby Grow

With the involvement of over 20 people, including editors, writers, designers, photographers, hair and makeup artists, baby experts, and, most importantly, baby Melisa and her family, this unique parenting book walks new parents step-by-step through the first year of life. While readers are offered an intimate view of Melisa and her mother, Seyhan, they're also guided through such universal milestones for babies as bonding with parents, learning to eat, play, and socialize, and%E2%80%94toward the book's conclusion%E2%80%94first words. The text is amply illustrated with color photos, which are simultaneously charming and descriptive, visually conveying how a baby develops from newborn days up to his or her first birthday. Particular attention is paid to the infant's point of view, with fascinating info on how Melisa (and other babies) learn about their environment. First-time parents may find this guidebook especially appealing, while readers with older children may prefer to rely on their own baby pictures and experiences. Nevertheless, there is plenty of up-to-date research, much of it conducted by Babylab at Birkbeck, University of London, and practical tips to keep even seasoned parents engaged. This team effort has produced a lively and colorful guide to baby's formative first year. Color illus. (Jan.)