I Love You Already!
#2 in Bear & Duck Series
What’s inside...
From the award-winning creators of Goodnight Already!, Come Home Already!, and All Right Already!
Bear can't wait to spend a pleasant day by himself. But his persistent next-door neighbor, Duck, wants to take a morning stroll . . . with Bear.
He just wants Bear to like him already. . .
Jory John, author of Penguin Problems and The Bad Seed, and Benji Davies, creator of The Storm Whale, join together again to bring us this standout hilarious story of unrequited admiration that will leave children laughing at every page. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any story time!
Why read this book
- Emphasizes the value of friendship and acceptance.
- Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
- Supports early emotional and social development.
- Interactive and enjoyable read for parents and children.
Character compass
Bear
Duck
Discussion points
How do you think Bear felt when Duck kept insisting on spending time together?
Why do you think Duck was so eager to do things with Bear?
Can you describe a time when you wanted to spend time with someone who was busy? How did that make you feel?
What are some ways we can show someone we care about them, even if we’re not always doing activities together?
What do you think is the message of this story about friendship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing personal stories about your friends and asking your child about theirs. This will create a relatable grounding for discussing the book's themes.
Focus on the emotions displayed by the characters in the book, such as excitement, annoyance, and contentment. Relate these emotions to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Encourage your child to think about how they can relate to Duck and Bear by discussing times when they wanted company or preferred solitude.
Use the book’s illustrations to guide the conversation. Point out the characters' facial expressions and body language, and ask your child what those might indicate about how they're feeling.
Reinforce the message of being understanding and considerate. Discuss with your child how they can be supportive friends while respecting others' needs for space.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The story showcases the dynamics between Bear and Duck, emphasizing how Duck's enthusiastic efforts to spend time together highlight the essence of true friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and nurture friendships by making efforts to interact and engage in activities together, reinforcing social bonds.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differing personalities
Explanation: Bear and Duck have contrasting personalities; Duck is outgoing and energetic, while Bear prefers quiet and solitude. The story teaches that friendships can thrive despite differences.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that everyone is unique and that embracing differences can lead to meaningful relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of quality time
Explanation: Despite Bear's initial resistance, he ultimately finds enjoyment in spending time with Duck. This highlights the significance of giving time to loved ones.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of spending quality time with family and friends, realizing that such moments can create joy and lasting memories.
Example Lesson: Understanding boundaries
Explanation: Bear clearly communicates his need for personal space, which Duck learns to respect by the story's end. This interaction underlines the understanding of personal boundaries in relationships.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by learning to respect others' needs and expressing their own boundaries clearly and respectfully.
Example Lesson: Expressing affection
Explanation: Throughout the book, Duck frequently shows affection and a desire to make Bear happy, demonstrating how expressing love and care is vital in friendships.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to openly show affection and care towards their friends and family, fostering a supportive and loving environment.