It is a collection of sixty-eight nursery rhymes, chosen by Opie from the Mother Goose oeuvre, and illustrated by Rosemary Wells.

The School Library Journal wrote "Such a spirit of fun and pleasure emanates from every page of this big, handsome volume that although there are many distinguished entries in the nursery-rhyme book field, this one is sure to add special joy to any collection.

"[1] Kirkus Reviews concluded "There's little point in pretending that even prodigious collections of nursery rhymes can do without this one--it's a must.

"[2] and Publishers Weekly in a star review called it an "exuberant anthology" and wrote " A collaboration that both freshens and preserves the past, this volume deserves a prominent place not just in the nursery room but on the shelves of all who treasure illustrated books.

"[3] While discussing various Mother Goose books, Horn Book called My First Mother Goose a "lap-friendly charmer" and "a fine place to begin,"[4] Parents' Choice awarded it a 1996 Gold Award and stated "The rhythmical mixture makes a generous volume distinctive; it's simultaneously pungent, sweet and salty.