My kids really look forward to the tradition of rotating our seasonal and holiday book baskets. The Winter/Christmas book basket is everyone's favorite because we have an abundance of books that fit into those themes. Valentine books, however, are harder to come by.
We love our copy of Plant a Kiss by Amy Rosenthal, but it is really the only (loosely) Valentine themed book we own. We've checked out some Valentine books from the library, but nothing that has remained memorable. So this year I decided to expand the theme to : Children's Books about Love.
Turns out, there are TONS of charming and memorable picture books about love. Here are a few we are enjoying:
I Loathe You | David Slonim
This book is very amusing to my kids because monsters do and say the exact opposite of what my kids expect. How do monsters say I love you? I loathe you, of course! Best of all, a monster's loathing is unconditional.
Apple Cake: A Recipe for Love | Julie Paschkis
The illustrations are completely charming in this book, but the story will steal your heart too. Alfonso wants Ida to notice his love for her, but she is too busy reading a book. Maybe, just maybe, Alfonso's special Apple Cake recipe will do the trick.
Mama, Do You Love Me? | Barbara Joosse
This book has been a favorite of my little ones. We read it over and over again, each time reinforcing the unconditional love Mamas have for their little ones. What if I put lemmings in your mukluks? Still, I would love you.
Wherever You Are: My Love Will Find You | Nancy Tillman
This book is a precious, rhyming reminder of how a parent's love will follow wherever you go. My kids always love a good reminder of how Mama will love them from near and far.
Mama's Kiss | Jane Yolen
I think every young child loves the blow-me-a-kiss game! In this sweet book a Mama's kiss blows astray and takes you on a charming adventure.
I Haiku You | Betsy Snyder
This book is just what you would expect from the title: a charming collection of haiku about love and the happiness of simple pleasures. It's so fun to read and a perfect collection of poetry for little and big ears alike.
The I Love You Book | Todd Parr
Todd Parr has a way of being so profound while keeping it remarkably simple. This book is no exception. A collection of ways to say I love you and the reasons why we say it, this book is a heartwarming book to read together with your kids.
Leave a Reply