Valentines For All Book Review


Valentines for All: Esther Howland Captures America's Heart

Written by Nancy Churnin
Illustrated by Monika Róża Wiśniewska
Published by Albert Whitman & Co.

Mom's Review

Valentines for All is a picture book biography about Worcester native Esther Howland, the woman who launched the exchange of Valentine cards in America. Readers learn how she made the cards by hand with friends, how her father supported the very successful endeavor, and ultimately why she retired. With a cute sidebar "Roses are Red" rhyme on each page, the audience gains insight to questions, plans, and concerns on Howland's mind. A clear narrative and bright illustrations bring Howland to life; anyone who's received a Valentine's Day card can easily see the direct impact Howland has had on their lives.

A perfect read for Valentine's Day or really for any time!

Also cool for locals: Images of original Valentines are shown as part of back matter - those Valentines are courtesy of the Worcester Historical Museum! The Worcester Historical Museum partners with the Worcester Public Library every year to run Valentine Workshops at each branch. If you follow me on Instagram or TikTok you may have seen my promotion of the program back in January.

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