cover image I Love You Through and Through at Christmas, Too!

I Love You Through and Through at Christmas, Too!

Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak, illus. by Caroline Jayne Church. Cartwheel, $8.99 (26p) ISBN 978-1-338-23010-9

In this padded board book, a rosy-cheeked child takes part in common Christmastime activities while an unseen narrator—likely the child’s guardian—expresses their love. “I love you at Christmas—/ shopping and wrapping,/ making and baking,/ smiling and eating.” The child clutches a spoon in one hand, ready to eat a frosting and cherry–topped treat. As the child slides down a snowy hill, the speaker affirms that “I love you when you are laughing and giggling.” The child’s own goodwill also warrants love and affection: “I love you because you are patient and kind,/ merry and bright,/ helping and giving.” Tender sentiments make for a cozy wind-down read. Ages up to 3. (Sept.)