
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the complex emotions of a new sibling entering the home through adoption. It is especially helpful if your child has expressed fears of being replaced or is struggling to reconcile their love for their parents with the 'intruder' they feel a new baby represents. The story follows Davey, a young boy who is uncertain about his new brother arriving from Korea. Through gentle observation and parental reassurance, he moves from skepticism to acceptance. Eve Bunting masterfully captures the specific anxiety of a child who feels their territory is being encroached upon. While the focus is on international adoption, the emotional core is universal for any family growing in size. It is a quiet, realistic look at the transition period of becoming a big brother, perfect for children ages 4 to 8 who need to see their jealous feelings mirrored and then resolved in a safe, loving way.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book deals with adoption and the fear of abandonment or replacement. The approach is direct and realistic, focusing on the child's internal monologue. It is a secular story with a hopeful, grounded resolution that emphasizes family stability.
A 6-year-old child in a family preparing for an international or domestic adoption who has started acting out or asking if the parents will still love them once the 'new' child arrives.
This book can be read cold. It is helpful to be prepared to discuss the specific logistics of adoption (like the long plane ride mentioned) if the child asks. A parent might choose this after hearing their child say something like, 'Why do we need him?' or 'You won't have time for me anymore,' or witnessing a regression in behavior following the announcement of a new sibling.
Younger children (4-5) will focus on the baby and the pictures of the family together. Older children (7-8) will more deeply resonate with Davey's specific fears of being replaced and the nuances of his changing perspective.
Unlike many 'new baby' books that focus on biological siblings, this specifically highlights the unique waiting period and arrival process of international adoption while maintaining a focus on the resident sibling's emotional security.
Davey’s parents are adopting a baby boy from Korea. Davey is hesitant and skeptical, worried that this new addition will take his place in his parents' hearts. The story tracks his internal shift as he watches his parents interact with the baby and realizes that their love is expansive rather than limited. It concludes with Davey ready to embrace his new role as a big brother.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.