Daddy's Having a Horse

Lisa Shanahan (author)

Emma Quay (illustrations)

Hachette Children's Books, Australia: 2005

ISBN: 0733619827

Genres: humour, picture book, realistic fiction

Issues: family, identity, relationships

CBCA Shortlist, 2006: Book of the Year, Early Childhood

This delightful story is a charming exploration of the confused reactions of older siblings to the expected arrival of a new baby.

Caitlin is thrilled at the idea and tells everyone all about the fact that Mummy's going to have a baby. Lachlan is even more excited, however, as he is convinced that Daddy is going to have a horse. When the baby arrives, both children are disappointed. Caitlin was expecting a girl and Lachlan a colt. It is Lachie who helps Mum with baby Jack because Caitlin says, "It looks like a possum and smells." Full of the unpredictable and blunt responses of children, and the various ways kind adults deal with them, this is a book full of love and laughter.

Illustrations reminiscent of the evocative style of Julie Vivas capturesbeautifully the mixed emotions of the children, the loving family relationships, and changes that occur with the arrival of a new baby.

Heartwarming and sweet.