Miimi Marraal, Mother Earth is a lyrical blessing to read to your baby. One that promises them they will always be loved and that they have a place on this land among its people and animals. One that gently reminds them of their responsibilities and assures them they will never be alone.

Echoing and strengthening the sentiments of the text are its stunning illustrations. Contemporary and traditional styles mix; bold and soft colours fill the pages to the edges, smothering the words in a way a parent might smother their child with love. In the vein of Alison Lester’s Kissed by the Moon and Oliver Jeffers’ Here We Are, Miimi Marraal, Mother Earth is a wish for the best for your child’s future. It’s a book I will be giving to all the new parents in my life. For ages 2+.

Dani Solomon is the manager of Readings Kids.