Woman in Real Life

You know I love books. I do. I love them. My love for them is irrational. I continue to covet them, collect them and display them even though I already have waaaay too many - way more than I could ever possibly find the time to read.

But rarely have I been so excited as when a package arrived at my door recently from Gibbs Smith. I know that some of you are already familiar with the BabyLit series. When I posted a photo on Instagram, some of you told me how much you love the collection.

I only spotted the BabyLit series recently and I was instantly entranced. The books, written by Jennifer Adams with art by Alison Oliver, are based on one of those obvious yet ingenious, "Why didn't I think of this?" ideas. They are modern takes on classic novels by authors like Lewis Carroll, Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte. But they are for babies and toddlers. As the BabyLit website points out, they are "a fashionable way to introduce your toddler to the world of classic literature."


Each book includes quotes from the original novel, along with vocabulary words for children to learn. "Moby-Dick: An Ocean Primer" features words related to the sea, such as sailors, captain, anchor and, of course, whale.


"Wuthering Heights: A Weather Primer" calls attention to words such as sunny, stormy, rainy and misty. "The storm came rattling over the Heights in full fury," says the page accompanying the word "stormy."


"Sense & Sensibility: An Opposites Primer" shares words such as big (Norland Park) and little (Barton Cottage).


There's also a series of whimsical tote bags, buttons, stuffed characters and prints. Take a look at the collection here. How much do I want this Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy artwork?

I'm totally taking my Cheshire Cat tote bag to the library with me!


This stuffed Dracula now sits on the couch in our living room/office.


These Button-Lit "wearable classic literature" buttons would make great party favours for your book club friends. I love the little Romeo and Juliet button.

You might well wonder why I got so excited about the BabyLit books, seeing as I don't have any toddlers. Well, I told you I'm irrational when it comes to books. Seriously, though, as much as your toddler will love these books,they also appeal to Mom's or Dad's love of the classics. As a university English grad, I think they make lovely collectibles.
A friend on Instagram pointed out that she often buys these books for baby showers and I agree they make a perfect, lovely, unique gift.

Do you own any of the BabyLit items? Have you read any of the books to your child?


*I was provided with books and other materials for review purposes. All opinions are my own.