Ma! There's Nothing to Do Here!

Ma! There's Nothing to Do Here!
Author(s)
Co-Authors / Illustrators
Publisher
Genre(s)
Age Range
4+
Release Date
January 22, 2008
ISBN
037583852X
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This hilarious picture book about a baby waiting to be born is the perfect gift for moms and moms-to-be -- by Barbara Park, the beloved and bestselling author of the Junie B. Jones series!

“Ma! there’s nothing to do here!” complains the precocious protagonist of this rhyming tale set entirely in utero. It’s not exactly a scintillating experience spending nine months in your mother’s womb. You’re just stuck there at the end of that dumb bungee cord (a.k.a. the umbilical cord), with nothing whatsoever to do but slosh around. But, oh, the endless joys you have to look forward to as you listen to the tick-tock of ma’s happy heart clock and await that happy day when you finally come out to play.

Editor reviews

2 reviews
Rollicking Message from a Baby in Utero
(Updated: June 24, 2026)
Overall rating
 
5.0
Plot
 
5.0
Characters
 
N/A
Writing Style
 
N/A
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
N/A
"Dear Ma, What's a baby to do in a womb with no view?" is the first line from a yet-to-be-born child in this hilarious, adorable rhyming picture book. The utero resident goes on to gripe about his/her boredom. After all, there's nothing to look at. There's no park or zoo. There's room only for floating, no swimming or boating. Because of the tight quarters, the baby has knees in the face. Of course, there are a few things to pass the time, such as sloshing, kicking, hiccupping, and trying to grow a bit of hair. Games are a loss, however, and there are no toys.

Yet, the baby listens to Ma's heart ticking while wondering if she's getting things ready for "show time." The baby concludes with a plan for both mom and child to rest until everything's ready, a kiss for Dad, and a sign-off full of love.

This book is just plain irresistible with its lilting rhymes, good humor, and wonderful illustrations. It would be perfect for an expectant friend, as well as a great story time read.
G
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