If you’ve been around here for a hot second, you know that I love themed books! I’ve been collecting them since my youngest was born and have amassed a little collection over the last 8 years. I can definitely say that not all holiday books are created equal, and I have read and (sadly) purchased my fair share of flops. I love holiday books that not only have a fun holiday theme, but also have a cute story and a good message. These days I am much picky about books that we add to our collection. I like to borrow them from the library before I purchase them for our collection if I can. Library holds can be tricky for seasonal items as you probably already know, another great way to “pre-read” a book is to look for it being read on Youtube. Several of our favorites are on Youtube, which is handy if you are wanting to read them, but the holds aren’t going to work out in your favor. I’m still getting Christmas holds thanks to COVID and library holds!
- Bear in Love- This book isn’t specifically St. Valentine’s Day, but a super sweet read about friendship and sharing with others. Watch Online
- Lola Dutch, I Love You So Much- Another book that isn’t specifically Valentine’s Day, but a great message about loving others the way that they most feel loved. Watch Online
- The Story of Valentine’s Day- This non-fiction board book series is great for introducing the origin and meaning behind holidays on a kids level. This one introduces the legend of St. Valentine. I still like to read this one, even if most of what we believe about St. Valentine cannot be historically proven.
- One Zillion Valentines- I remembered this one from when I was growing up. I decided to hunt it down a couple of years ago and found it on Thriftbooks. I love the fun story of Milton and Marvin wanting to give Valentines to everyone. The used books can get kinda pricey, but the cartoon version is on Prime if you want to check it out. Watch Online
- The Giant Hug- I used to read this book to my students when I was a school counselor to discuss the power of kindness to others. It isn’t a Valentine’s Day book, but I certainly think love and kindness are fitting for the mood of the day. Watch Online
- Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch- This one is new to use, but I love the story of Mr. Hatch and how his whole life changed when he felt he was love and appreciated. Such a powerful message. Watch Online
- The Day it Rained Hearts- This story of a young girl who collects hearts when it rains to make Valentines for friends is another fun read about thinking of others. Watch Online
- Happy Valentine’s Day, Mouse- We have several books in this series, we just love Mouse! I love how he makes personalized Valentines that each of his friends will love. Watch Online
- Hedgehugs- This charming board book is all about how two hedge hog friends solve their problem of not being able to hug. Watch Online
- Love Monster and the Last Chocolate- This might be my very favorite love read because it highlights thinking of others, sharing and even what we feel like when we are about to do something we know we shouldn’t. This book will make you fall in love with Love Monster, and if you want some added fun use Chocolate Playdoh to make your own chocolates like the book. We used THIS recipe. (I ended up heating it on the stove to get the playdoh consistency, I think my water wasn’t hot enough to start out.) Watch Online
We love to pull out our Valentine’s books for the week or two leading up to Valentine’s day. If your feeling extra festive whip up a little Valentine’s snack or treat and spend the afternoon reading.
Here‘s a few snacks we love:
-apples, grapes, strawberries and fruit dip (strawberry yogurt & cool whip) with sprinkles
-chocolate dipped pretzels and strawberry wafer cookies
-a mix of valentine m&ms, chocolate teddy grahams and mini marshmallows
Do you have any favorite Valentine’s Day and love themed books? Please share!
Happy Reading!
Megan
