This Is Not a Valentine
What’s inside...
This book is not a traditional valentine with lacey edges or sugary hearts. Instead, it is full of lucky rocks, secret hiding spots, and treasures from a gumball machine. It explores the idea of waiting in line, wishing for cinnamon buns, and the complexities of caring for someone and not wanting them to know. It delves into the realization that caring deeply about someone's perception might mean you truly do care, which is what love is about. As the book progresses, it suggests that maybe it is a valentine after all, celebrating handmade, wacky, bashful, honest love. This debut picture book from Carter Higgins and veteran Lucy Ruth Cummins makes a perfect gift to celebrate various relationships such as parent to child, sibling to sibling, and partner to partner.
Age
5-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Narrator (Unnamed Boy)
Classmate (Unnamed Girl)
Discussion points
What do you think the book is saying about what a Valentine is or isn't?
How do you show someone that they are special to you without using words?
What are some ways the boy in the book shows his feelings?
Do you have a favorite part or item from the book? Why is it your favorite?
How did the book make you feel about giving and receiving?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable and quiet environment to discuss the book, encouraging open and honest expression of feelings.
Use examples from your personal experiences or your child’s experiences to relate to the story, making the concepts more tangible and relatable.
Highlight and discuss the illustrations in the book, especially how they add depth to the story and evoke emotions.
Encourage your child to think about the variety of relationships in their life and how they express affection and care in each.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to inspire deeper thinking and connection to the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the true essence of friendship
Explanation: The book illustrates that gifts and material gestures are not necessary to show friendship, but rather small, thoughtful acts and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture friendships based on mutual respect and kindness, rather than material possessions.
Example Lesson: Appreciating individuality
Explanation: The narrative showcases how the main character gifts items that cater to his friend's unique personality and interests, thus highlighting the importance of acknowledging individual differences.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to observe and respect the differences in others, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic attitude.
Example Lesson: Expressing emotions
Explanation: The protagonist in the story expresses his feelings through creative and personal gestures, which emphasizes the value of open emotional expression.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that it’s okay to express their feelings and that there are many different, healthy ways to show someone how they feel.
Example Lesson: Creativity in gift-giving
Explanation: The gifts given in the story are handcrafted and well-thought-out, which teaches the importance of creativity and personal touch in gift-giving.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to think creatively about how to make others feel special, using their unique talents and insights.
Example Lesson: Recognizing non-traditional celebrations
Explanation: The book portrays a non-traditional approach to Valentine's Day, which can broaden children's perspectives on how holidays can be celebrated.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand and respect various cultural or personal approaches to celebrations and recognize that not everyone celebrates in the same way.