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Look up “love” in the dictionary, and one of the first definitions is “strong affection.” But it’s so much more than that. Love is an emotion, a feeling and an action; it’s a warm hug with family members or a sloppy lick from a puppy. Above all, it has a different meaning for everyone, especially children. And this month’s books use an assortment of characters, animals and even places to showcase just what love is to little ones. ‘Baby, I Love You’ [ages 1-4]By Karma Wilson; illustrated by Sam Williams (Little Simon; $7.99; 30 pages) There’s nothing like a new baby to love, and this board book takes a look at some of their cuddly features. From little hands to “tummy-tums,” this tender tale’s soft, repetitive rhymes will lull little ones to sleep and bring a tear to your eye. It’s a touching way to show the new additions in the family how much they are loved. ‘Henry in Love’ [ages 3-6]By Peter McCarty (Balzer + Bray; $16.99; 48 pages) This sweet, tender story follows Henry, his first love, Chloe, and a blueberry muffin. Award-winning author Peter McCarty presents charming illustrations and a simple, touching plot that will warm hearts. It’s a delightful book your little ones just might relate to, and it offers a look at what young love is all about. ‘Homegrown House’ [ages 4-8]By Janet Wong; illustrated by E.B. Lewis (Margaret K. McElderry Books; $16.99; 40 pages) Every child knows the feeling of a treasured space, and this young girl is no different. She wants her new house to feel comfortable, just like her grandmom’s. But the older woman shows her that it takes time to grow into a house and, with a little patience, the girl may learn to love her new home. This is an eye-catching story that no child can pass up. ‘Love, Stargirl’ [ages 12 and up]By Jerry Spinelli (Alfred A. Knopf; $8.99; 274 pages) In the sequel to “Stargirl,” a huggable young girl tries to put her life back together after moving from Arizona and leaving behind Leo, the boy she can’t forget. With an assortment of unique characters – such as Dootsie, a 5-year-old who Stargirl befriends – kindhearted Stargirl learns to look ahead, accept life’s changes and, above all, love herself. Kristen Schott is OC Family magazine’s children’s book editor. |
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