You and Your Dad »

In this warm tribute to the unique bond between father and child, Alpert explores the many different ways that children spend time with their dads. Children will stop, think, and realize how important this relationship is. 32 pp. Ages 4-7. Pub: 4/98.

Publishers Weekly

``What kind of dad spends time with you? / Where does he work? What does he do?'' In simple, somewhat contrived rhymed couplets, Alpert asks readers what their fathers do to fill their workdays, offering them a slate of possibilities to choose from--``Does he drive a tractor, talk on the phone? / Does he work with others or all alone?'' Alpert then shifts her focus to what fathers do with their children after returning home. Colorful but rudimentary illustrations show a variety of dads and kids involved in such pastimes as reading together, playing in the snow, washing a car, hiking up a mountain and enjoying a picnic. The various figures, however, are poorly proportioned, with ill-defined digits and frequently lopsided expressions. (Unfortunately, scenic backgrounds and overall perspectives fare no better.) Finally, Alpert comes to a reassuring, but obvious, conclusion: ``Wherever you go and whatever you do, / your dad is special and so are you!'' Ages 4-7. (Aug.)