All Moms

Married coauthors Ellis, a GLAAD executive, and Ellis-Henderson, a musician, offer an expansive view of motherhood in this stylish homage. True to its name, the book attempts to celebrate “all moms”—including a pilot, a boss, and a doctor, as well as a single mother, two dads who “give hugs/ just like moms,” and one “great nana.” One notable scene features a joyous march with participants holding aloft Pride and Transgender Pride flags, as well as signs that read “equality” and “love is love”: “Some moms make signs/ and march in parades.// Some moms give kisses/ and make lemonade.// But all moms/ will help you/ and come to/ your aid.” Matching the energy of the text’s rhyming prose, Rambaldi’s hip illustrations busily burst with life, depicting parents and children with varying abilities, gender expressions, skin tones, and body types, though facial features are often hazy and some border on cliche. With their inclusive focus, this well-matched trio show that above all, it’s kindness and care that define “mom.” Ages 4–8. (Mar.)