Britannica's Baby Encyclopedia for curious kids ages 0 to 3 by Sally Symes, illustrated by Hanako Clulow, consultant Dr. Amanda Gummer

 Technically, this is a board book. However, it's like no other board book you've ever seen, and I don't just mean a toy book with flaps or movable parts! It's a massive board book, a board book... encyclopedia! As is only to be expected from Britannica.

It's a solid chunk of a book at almost a foot high and with 69 thick cardboard pages. The binding is paper over board, which does give me pause as I'm not sure it will stand up to much use, even just standing on a shelf. The content itself is divided up into color-coded chapters covering earth, animals, plants, the human body, food, machines, art & music, and shapes & numbers. Each section has colored blocks running along the bottom marking the different subject areas. The pictures have a minimalist, classic style, set against simple colored backgrounds. A variety of races are pictured among the children and families and there are a few visibly disabled children wearing glasses, a hearing aid, and in wheelchairs. One child appears to have a broken leg and is on crutches.

Simple text explains what is happening in each picture, includes instructions, and gives sounds to inspire repetition. The addition of art and music is definitely something new in this type of book and I found it interesting that it didn't have a section on families, as that seems to be frequently included (and debated). The book is bracketed at beginning and end with instructions to caregivers on using the book with young children and includes information about the creators and their qualifications.

Is this a unique, interesting board book? Yes. Will children and caregivers find it educational and fun? Absolutely. Should you put it in your board book collection? I'd argue no. At 2.5 lbs, it's a serious chunk of a book and I can see a kid pulling it off the shelf onto themselves. Additionally, the paper over board binding is not really strong enough for the weight of the book. However, this would make a wonderful addition to a kit, which will allow caregivers to pick it up safely in a bin and supervise or read together with a child.

Verdict: If you don't have storytime kits, this is a great book to get you started! Pair it with pretty much anything - manipulatives, animals, Phaidon's Cook in a Book - and you'll have a simple kit that teachers and caregivers will love.

ISBN: 9781913750800; Published October 2022 by Britannica Books; Review copy provided by publisher; Donated to the library