I Got a Family

Melrose Cooper's 1997 picture book is a joyful parade of family members — from Great-Gran to the family cat — each sketched in six-line vernacular stanzas that bounce along and practically beg to be read aloud. Dale Gottlieb's bold primary-color illustrations match the celebratory energy perfectly, and the multi-generational cast means most children will find someone they recognize. Booklist gave it a starred review and specifically praised how it invites children to share stories about their own families. The caveat is straightforwardness: the book is brief and makes no attempt at narrative depth. For younger read-aloud audiences, that simplicity is a feature. A warm, uncomplicated celebration of family love.