About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts recoiling at the mention of love or dismissing sweet gestures as yucky or mushy. It is an ideal choice for the child who is beginning to feel the social pressure of gendered expectations regarding affection, or who feels vulnerable sharing their true feelings. The story follows a young boy named Leon who creates a heartfelt Valentine only for the card itself to come to life and run away, shouting that love is gross. Through a hilarious and high energy chase, Leon must defend his feelings against his own doubting creation. This story masterfully validates the common childhood fear of embarrassment while ultimately celebrating the bravery required to be sincere. It is a playful, age appropriate way to discuss how we express friendship and affection without the conversation becoming too heavy or sentimental for a skeptical young reader.
