9 Books on Love for Kids Ages 3 – 5

by Rosemary D'Urso

Image credit: Granger Wootz/Getty Images

Prepare for extra cuddles while reading these sweet books that celebrate love. From the unbreakable bond between family members to the kindness and adoration found through friendship, the stories below exemplify the uplifting power of one of our strongest emotions. These delightful tales are perfect for Valentine’s Day and all year long.

  • The Heart of a Whale

    by Anna Pignataro

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    Lush watercolor illustrations present a gorgeous view of sea life in this poignant tale. Rich, lyrical vocabulary describes how a whale’s enrapturing song cheers all around him, but inside the whale feels alone. When he lets out a great sigh, it is carried through the pastel waters where it attracts a new friend. This is a stunningly beautiful story of finding love and friendship.

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  • I Love Daddy Every Day

    by Isabel Otter, illustrated by Alicia Más

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    This lovely celebration of dads highlights the many ways they can enrich a child’s life. The cheerful tone of the book is mirrored by the colorful illustrations featuring happy, smiling families participating in a variety of activities together. There are sure to be lots of snuggles while reading this heartwarming book commemorating the love between a father and child. You also won’t want to miss the companion book, I Love Mommy Every Day.

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  • Who Will You Be?

    by Andrea Pippins

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    While gazing at her beloved child, a mom ponders which attributes he will inherit from his family members. Will he be adventurous like his aunt, kind like his dad, or joyful like his cousin? Bold illustrations paired with affirmative words results in a powerful love letter to children that will help build their confidence as they savor being part of a family.

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  • Love You Always

    by Frances Stickley, illustrated by Migy Blanco

    Expect extra cuddles while reading this endearing story! When a little hedgehog worries that his mom might love him more if he was different, she reassures him that her vast love for him is unconditional. Gentle rhymes create a cozy tone while the colorful illustrations capture the beauty of the natural world in this special story about the profound connection between a parent and child.

  • I Will Always Be Your Bunny

    by Frances Gilbert, illustrated by Julianna Swaney

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    Fans of the classic tale The Velveteen Rabbit will relish in this charming gift book. The tender rhymes describe how the beloved stuffed animal will be there to comfort, love, and be a friend in all of life’s ups and downs — assuring readers that they will always be cared for. With its vintage feel and uplifting text, this inviting tale is sure to be cherished by both children and adults alike.

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  • I Love You, Grandma!

    by Tish Rabe, illustrated by David Hitch

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    A young boy recounts a magical day spent with his grandmother in this heartfelt ode to grandmas. From taking walks to visiting playgrounds to baking, everything feels more extraordinary when Grandma is involved. This colorful Little Golden Book is sure to get a lot of love and require multiple readings while snuggling with a special grandparent.

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  • In a Jar

    by Deborah Marcero

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    Llewellyn and Evelyn are collectors. Together, they have not only created a collection of remarkable items, but memories as well. When Evelyn moves away, the two friends maintain their friendship by continuing to share special moments captured in jars with each other. This whimsical, sensitive, and enchanting story demonstrates the strong bond found in friendship and reassures readers that love can exist and even flourish despite great distance.

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  • Love Is My Favorite Thing

    by Emma Chichester Clark

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    Plum is an exuberant pooch who loves everything around him and, most of all, being loved by his owners. When Plum humorously gets into some mischief, however, he worries that his family will no longer adore him. After a quick time-out Plum is showered in hugs and kisses, again reaffirming that he is loved unconditionally — even if he makes mistakes. Many kids will find a kindred spirit in Plum and feel assured that the love from their family is total and absolute.

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  • A Book of Love

    by Emma Randall

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    Eye-catching illustrations draw the reader in as flowing rhymes advise children on various ways they can show love in this mesmerizing book. Whether it’s a helping hand or a kind word, children will come away with several ideas of how they, too, can share love in their everyday lives.

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