There are so many ways that we show love to the people we care about, be they our friends, family, neighbors, pets, or even strangers. Far beyond the romantic, celebrating love is just another way to celebrate what brings us together and connects us as human beings. In that spirit, we’ve gathered seven lovely picture books that salute love in all its forms and expressions.
L Is for Love by Atinuke, Illustrated by Angela Brooksbank
Following a Nigerian farming family as they spend the day at a market in Laos, this sweet title begins as an alliterative exploration of the letter L. L is for the lamp that lights their way through the trees in the early morning; L is for “lucky” and “lift” when a truck driver stops to give them a ride. L is for the lemons the family sells, and the lazy lions on the savanna. Yet throughout, Atinuke’s spare text combines with Brooksbank’s warm and expressive illustrations of the affectionate family, weaving the most prominent L-word through every page: love.
Heartfelt by Elaine Vickers, Illustrated by Samantha Cotterill
Through Vicker’s earnest text and Cotterill’s signature, stunning three-dimensional illustrated artwork, readers follow a child as they make a collection of paper hearts; not to keep, but to spread love to their neighborhood and family by giving them away. Along the kiddo’s journey, they show an eagerness to give love in other ways, such as by being helpful, giving a gift to a friend, and bonding with a sibling over a book. By the end, readers will be inspired to spread love wherever they go and be amazed by the love they receive in return.
Mrs. Peanuckle’s Love Alphabet by Mrs. Peanuckle, Illustrated by Jessie Ford
The latest in the delightful Mrs. Peanuckle’s Alphabet series, this board book is a wonderful way to explore the concept of love for the smallest of bookworms. Letter by letter of the alphabet, the affirming narration of Mrs. Peanuckle provides pre- and early readers with irrefutable facts about love, such as A is for Always — “You are always loved” — and E is for Everybody — “Everybody needs and deserves to be loved.” From cuddles to feelings to protecting the earth, love is examined from every angle, assuring little ones that the world is full of love for them to find as they grow.
Love Is Powerful by Heather Dean Brewer, Illustrated by Leuyen Pham
Inspired by a true event, little Mari is excited to participate in a peaceful protest march for women’s rights, even making her own sign with crayons and cardboard. Yet when Mari sees the crowd of people, she wonders how the “message for the world” on her sign will be heard. Her mother assures her that the world will hear her, “because love is powerful.” Including a letter from the real-life Mari, this captivating story skillfully conveys that standing up for one’s rights and the rights of others is an act of love, and one with which even the smallest of voices can create a mighty echo.
Ten-Word Tiny Tales of Love by Joseph Coelho, Illustrated by Various
Love can sometimes be grand gestures and epic poems, but it is more often found in small moments. Former UK Children’s Laureate Coelho takes this concept and presents a beautiful book filled with ten-word stories of love between loved ones, be it friends dancing under starlight, an older brother teaching a younger brother to tie his shoes, and even a loyal ghost dog delighting in his master’s visits to his graveside. With each story illustrated by a celebrated picture book artist — including Jon Klassen, Victoria Turnbull, and Jarvis to name a few — these tales will touch every reader’s heart.
Love Is Taylor Swift by Patty Michaels, Illustrated by Ruth Burrows
Ask any Swiftie and they’ll tell you that being a part of the Taylor-verse is rooted in love. Yet not simply love for the pop idol or her music, oh no! It’s about finding joy in doing the things you love, being kind to others, and, most importantly, showing love to yourself. Yes, this upbeat title is filled with plenty of nods to Swift and her fandom, from familiar friendship bracelets, the number thirteen, and plenty of cats. However, there’s also the sweet message that surrounding oneself with loved ones and practicing self-care is as much an expression of love as belting out “Cruel Summer” for the one-millionth time.
Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer
Familial love is one of the strongest bonds that a child can have, but what makes a family? Well, it’s waking up early, making special meals, and knowing how to find lost treasured toys. It’s helping, cheering, and making things better when the day goes wrong. In this darling board book, families are shown in all shapes and sizes — mom and dad, same-sex couples, single parents, elderly caregivers, etc. — going about their day, illustrating to little readers that no matter what a family may look like, the love between them means that they are complete and whole.
Love should be celebrated year-round, especially the kind that connects us to the special people in our lives. We hope that you and your young readers find some love between the pages of these lovely picture books. Happy reading!
To see more of our favorite picture books about love, check out our article on Picture Books That Inspire Self-Love in Little Bookworms.
To see all of our recommendations for mini bookworms, check out our Bookshop bookshelf.
