About this book

Simple words and colorful paintings tell the warm, engaging story of new parents who buy a rocking chair when they are expecting a baby. Bright, sunny illustrations show the precious intimacy between parents and their children; the new mother glows with affection, and the new father reads aloud to their young son.

Time passes, and the boy grows up; the beloved rocker is moved to the attic and gathers dust. But when the boy becomes a man, the cycle begins anew. He and his wife have a baby girl, and the rocking chair is needed again.

Legendary artists Leo and Diane Dillon are two of the greatest illustrators of our time. This is their final collaboration, inspired by their own rocking chair. It is a tender tribute to the enduring power of family love-passed from generation to generation.

Here is a book for all ages to cherish. It serves as a loving reminder of those who have gone before us-and those who are still to come.

Reviews

Praise for Ashanti to Zulu: African Traditions
A Caldecott Medal Winner
"These are sophisticated illustrations, the colors rich yet subdued, the drawing stylized and subtle.... Ashanti to Zulu is an exotic book for those ready to look beyond the familiar."-The New York Times

Praise for Why Mosquitos Buzz in People's Ears: A West African Tale (written by Verna Aardema)
A Caldecott Medal Winner
*"Mosquito tells a story that causes a jungle disaster. Elegance has become the Dillons' hallmark.... Matching the art is Aardema's uniquely onomatopoeic text.... An impressive showpiece."
-Booklist, starred review

Praise for Aida (retold by Leontyne Price)
A Coretta Scott King Book Award Winner
An ALA Notable Children's Book
"[The paintings] form a stunning, unified whole... lavishly packaged and strikingly designed."-Publisher's Weekly

Praise for Rap A Tap Tap: Here's Bojangles-Think of That!
A Coretta Scott King Book Award Winner
A Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year
A Parents' Choice Award Winner
"A book about tap dancing's greatest, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, ought to be just as rhythmic as this one."-Chicago Tribune
*"This jazzy introduction to an important contributor to American culture will entrance the youngest music and dance fans."-Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Praise for If Kids Ran the World
*"The spreads balance the lively activity of a parade with the rhythm and poise of classic tapestry. With these images of joyousness and boundless energy, the Dillons affirm and call forth the special gifts children have to give."-Publisher's Weekly, starred review