How to Have a Birthday (2021)
words by Mary Lyn Ray
illustrated by Cindy Derby
“On the morning of your birthday, you can tell already that the day is not like others.”
I’m always on the lookout for good books to read every year on our birthdays, and this one is definitely a winner! It encapsulates the excitement and specialness of a birthday. This picture book goes through a day in the life of a birthday. The author hints at some things that may happen — people singing to you, having a birthday tradition — but she also leaves it open that you can always sing to yourself or that your tradition may be trying something new each year or just being surprised by the day. I happened upon this book right before my birthday, and I strongly feel that it is a message full of magic and sweetness, no matter your age. The illustrations fit perfectly, and I’m so looking forward to adding this to our birthday book collection.