Belly Button Book! (Boynton on Board) by Sandra Boynton

If you're searching for a board book that will make toddlers giggle, parents smile, and bedtime routines infinitely more fun, Belly Button Book! (Boynton on Board) by Sandra Boynton is an absolute gem. This charming, rhythmic, and irresistibly silly book is a celebration of one of childhood’s greatest fascinations—belly buttons!

Sandra Boynton, a beloved children’s author and illustrator, has a knack for crafting books that are as engaging for adults as they are for kids. With her signature whimsical animals, playful rhymes, and infectious energy, Belly Button Book! is no exception. But what makes this book stand out in the crowded world of toddler literature? Let’s dive in.

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Belly Button Book! doesn’t follow a traditional plot but instead revels in the sheer joy of its subject matter. The book introduces a cast of cheerful, anthropomorphic animals (mostly hippos, because Boynton loves hippos) who are utterly obsessed with their belly buttons—or "bee-bos," as they affectionately call them.

The narrative is a series of playful, repetitive rhymes celebrating the silliness of belly buttons. The animals dance, wiggle, and show off their "bee-bos" with infectious enthusiasm. There’s no conflict, no moral lesson—just pure, unadulterated fun.

The simplicity is intentional. Boynton understands that toddlers thrive on repetition, rhythm, and humor, and this book delivers all three in spades.

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While the book doesn’t have deep character arcs, Boynton’s illustrations bring each animal to life with distinct personalities:

• The Hippos – The main stars of the book, these hippos are exuberant, a little goofy, and completely unselfconscious about their love for belly buttons.
• The Chickens – Providing comic relief, these birds chime in with their own take on belly buttons (or lack thereof).
• The Other Animals – From a bear to a bunny, each creature adds to the book’s joyful chaos.

Boynton’s characters are never just drawings—they’re full of expression, movement, and humor, making them instantly relatable to young readers.

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Boynton’s writing is deceptively simple. The rhymes are catchy, the rhythm is bouncy, and the repetition makes it easy for toddlers to anticipate and "read along." Phrases like:

"Belly Belly Button, you’re oh so fine!
Ooo, Belly Button, I’m so happy you’re mine!"

…are impossible to read without a smile. The book’s structure encourages participation—kids will quickly start chiming in, pointing to their own belly buttons, and giggling at the absurdity.

The illustrations complement the text perfectly, with bold lines, expressive faces, and a vibrant color palette that keeps little eyes glued to the page.

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At its core, Belly Button Book! is about finding delight in the simplest parts of life. For toddlers, belly buttons are fascinating—they’re a part of their bodies they can see, poke, and laugh about. Boynton taps into this universal childhood curiosity and turns it into a celebration.

There’s also a subtle message of body positivity—the animals love their "bee-bos" no matter their shape or size, reinforcing self-acceptance in a way that feels natural rather than preachy.

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As a parent, I’ve read Belly Button Book! approximately 4,732 times (give or take). And yet, it never gets old. Here’s why:

• It’s Interactive – My toddler loves pointing to the belly buttons, doing the little dances, and shouting "BEE-BO!"
• It’s Short but Engaging – Perfect for short attention spans, yet packed with enough humor to keep adults entertained.
• It’s a Mood Booster – There’s something about Boynton’s books that just feel happy.

The only "weakness" (if you can call it that) is that it’s not a story-driven book—it’s more of a joyful romp. Some parents might prefer a book with a stronger narrative, but for pure fun, this one’s hard to beat.

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Boynton’s work stands out in the world of board books because of her unique blend of humor, rhythm, and artistry. Compared to other toddler favorites:

• Vs. Goodnight Moon – While Goodnight Moon is soothing and lyrical, Belly Button Book! is energetic and playful.
• Vs. Brown Bear, Brown Bear – Both rely on repetition, but Boynton’s humor gives her books an extra layer of engagement.
• Vs. Moo, Baa, La La La! (Also by Boynton) – Similar in tone, but Belly Button Book! has a more singular, silly focus.

If your child loves Boynton’s other books (Barnyard Dance!, The Going to Bed Book), this is a must-add to the collection.

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• Toddlers (Ages 1-4) – The perfect age for belly button fascination.
• Parents Who Love Interactive Books – If you enjoy making voices, doing silly dances, and hearing your child laugh, this is for you.
• Gift-Givers – A fantastic baby shower or first birthday present.

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Belly Button Book! is a delightful, high-energy romp that celebrates one of childhood’s simplest joys. Sandra Boynton’s signature humor, catchy rhymes, and vibrant illustrations make this a book that kids will ask for again and again (and parents won’t mind reading).

If you’re looking for a book that will spark giggles, encourage interaction, and become an instant favorite, this is it.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

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• Do you have a favorite Sandra Boynton book?
• What’s the funniest reaction your child has had to Belly Button Book!?
• Are there other "body part" books your toddler loves?

Let’s chat in the comments! 🎉

Get this book on Amazon

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