By Matt de la Peña; Illustrated by Loren Long
Blog post review by: Siya Jatia
About Love:
Love is a heartfelt, anti-bais children’s book that explores the many forms love can take in our everyday lives. Matt de la Peña’s poetic writing and Loren Long’s expressive illustrations invite our young readers into moments of connection and care, from quiet family traditions to acts of kindness in the community. This book beautifully shows that love transcends age, race, and background, uniting us all through shared human experiences.Anti-Bias Discussion:
- Inclusive Illustrations: The book features characters from diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, along with people of all ages and abilities. This wide representation helps children see themselves and others in the story, fostering a sense of belonging.
- Challenging Stereotypes: It breaks away from clichés by showing love in less traditional contexts, like a child finding comfort with their dog during a family argument or a father-daughter duo dancing on the roof of their trailer.
- Embracing Different Lifestyles: The story highlights love in all kinds of family structures (grandparents, single parents, community members etc.) teaching children that every type of family is valuable and worthy of respect.
- Teaching Empathy: By normalizing diverse lifestyles and experiences, the book encourages children to appreciate differences and develop kindness toward others.
Love is not just a story; it’s a powerful tool for starting conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion with children. Its universal message reminds us all that love is the thread connecting us, no matter our circumstances. All of us can and should give and receive love.
I want to end by quoting Peña from a part of this book that impacted me the most:
"So when the time comes for you to set off on your own, heavy winds will sweep past your building, and great gray clouds will congregate above.
Your loved ones will stand there like puddles beneath their umbrellas, holding you tight and kissing you and wishing you luck.
But it won't be luck you'll leave with.
Because you'll have love.
You'll have love, love, love."
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