A brief rhyming text and crystal-clear color photographs document the first day of a sandhill crane chick. “It’s getting crowded inside this egg” signals the chick’s imminent hatching, while “Will my legs hold me? What if I fall?” heralds its inaugural shaky steps. The busy day continues with water exploration, insect and snail snacks, and watching adult cranes fly overhead, until the exhausted chick rests atop its mother’s wing. A final full-page note provides additional details about the development of juvenile sandhill cranes. (Ages 3–5)

A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.

Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?

Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too.