Babymoon, written by Hayley Barrett and illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal. Candlewick, Penguin Random House. 2019. $21.99 all ages

"We're reading stories,
playing games.
We're getting used to
brand-new names.

Endearing sneezes.
Solemn eyes.
Delighting in each
small surprise.

A tender dance of
give - and - take."

My kids are 40 and 43. It should come as no surprise that 'babymoon' is not part of my vocabulary. I was in hospital for three or four days following the birth of both. I might have preferred a babymoon, I think! After doing some research, I found that the term was first used in a published book in 1996, and is defined as a "a relaxing or romantic vacation taken by parents-to-be before (or after) their baby is born."

The relaxing vacation taken in this serene tale follows the birth of their baby, when a new mom and dad take the time needed to bond with their little one. The rest of the world is put on hold, with a note on the door that says SEE YOU SOON. In the quiet glow of their home, the new family spends time together. Nothing intrudes. The parents take great delight in watching, holding, reading stories, appreciating every tiny moment in the little one's early days.

The rhythm in the language is soothing and tender. There is much to learn together, and that is shared in short phrases that speak to the changes, the joy and the love that encompasses them. It is not always peaceful and easy. Together, they manage to minimize the lack of sleep, the constant concern for getting things right, the little blips along their path.

"Soothing water and warm embrace
of tentative and awkward grace.

Here together. So much to learn.
We muddle through each new concern.

We're reassuring, building trust -
believing that we'll soon adjust."

The warmth in the illustrations matches every moment perfectly. The images are soft, circular ... always holding the three together. The details are endearing: a cat and dog unsure of their place now that the baby has arrived, the letter tiles that spell Mami and  Daddy, the warm tea and cookies, Dad feeding Mom birth day cake while she cuddles the newborn, the worry when the baby cries ... if you have a child or children, you have been there.

Looking for a gift for new parents or a baby shower? Look no further.