Bobby and the Big Valentine

PreS-Gr 1–A heartwarming story that celebrates the power of friendship and self-expression. At the heart is the friendship between Bobby and Eddie, and Bobby’s desire to give Eddie the perfect Valentine’s Day card. Woven into the narrative are simple LGBTQIA+ themes, as Bobby worries about how Eddie might react to his heartfelt card and fears the judgment of others. This nuanced exploration of identity and self-acceptance adds depth to the story. The illustrations in this book are bright, detailed, and visually stimulating, filled with vibrant colors and intricate details. What’s particularly striking is the contrast between the cartoon depictions of the two young protagonists, Bobby and Eddie, and the more sketchlike, imaginative renderings of their dreams and inner thoughts. This visual style perfectly complements the narrative, highlighting the characters’ emotional journeys. The text is written in simple, easy-to-follow sentences with vocabulary well-suited for young readers who are building their literacy skills. However, the story also has a few slightly longer sentences, making it an engaging read for those with a growing attention span.