Artist: Laurence Bourguignon
Illustrator: Valerie d'Heur
Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2008

 Laurence Bourguignon (a Belgian woman) writes about separation anxiety in an engaging way.

Illustrator Valerie d'Heur captures the warring curiosity and fear in Jo-Jo, a little kangaroo, who doesn't want to leave his mama's pocket.

From that safe, warm place, Jo-Jo's mama introduces him to the world.

As he grows bigger, his mama describes all of the things he can do for himself outside of her pocket.

He explains why he should stay inside, saving the best reason for last-to always hear mama's heartbeat.

Her answer is a revelation to the little kangaroo, causing him to climb out so he can actually be closer to her heart.

Older toddlers will hear about another little one who isn't too sure about leaving his mother to explore nearby.

And adults can talk to preschoolers about things they are learning to do by themselves and when they still need help.

This lighthearted book is a fun way to talk about growing up.