Dad by Caldecott Honor winner Christian Robinson (Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña; You Matter) is a perceptive picture book that presents fatherhood with tender, direct honesty. Through spare language, Robinson offers young readers a nuanced look at the many roles fathers play. Each spread pairs a brief declarative phrase with a different animal father and child: a gorilla with its infant, a fox family, an owl and owlets, a shark and pups. The pared-down text, never more than 10 words per spread, describes actions and states of being. A father may be present, protective, or playful, but sometimes he must leave or needs distance. These simple statements invite children to interpret what they see and consider why a dad might act in certain ways. For example, an owl father's departure may raise questions for young readers, which can encourage inference or start conversations about the responsibilities that pull caregivers away.
Robinson does not present fathers as flawless. Some spreads acknowledge that dads can disappoint or make mistakes, while others emphasize comfort and support. The result is a portrayal of caregiving that balances strength with vulnerability. Robinson's distinct illustrative style uses clean compositions and uncluttered backgrounds that keep the focus on the relationships depicted, allowing the emotional cues in the animals' body language to guide readers. A brief spread of back matter introduces the animals and gives facts about each species' parenting habits. This addition connects the story's themes to the natural world. Dad--gentle, reflective, and accessible--affirms that fatherhood can take many forms. --Julie Danielson