Total Pageviews

Tuesday, February 15, 2022

The House of Love, written by Adriana Trigani and illustrated by Amy June Bates. Viking, Penguin Random House. 2021. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 


"Mama and Mia climbed the dusty stairs to 
the attic. Mama found the bin marked 
Valentine's Day. It was stuffed full with 
red decorations, long tinsel garlands, 
glitter hearts, cardboard cupids with 
velvet arrows, and lace doilies. Mia 
helped Mama carry the box down to 
the kitchen.
"

Sorry! Just missed Valentine's Day with this celebratory story of Mia Valentina and her family. They live in a very old house that creaks and leaks outside air on cold days in February. The Amore family is large - two parents, seven kids, and a dog named Phyllis. Along with the creaks and whistles, their house is filled with 'conversation, laughter, and sometimes even an argument'. 

February 14th is Mia's favorite day of the year! She and her mom are at home by themselves while the rest of the family is away at her sister's basketball game. Mia is worried they will not get home in time for a celebration. Mama distracts her with chores; they are numerous and well-described. Once done their work, they are ready to make preparations for later. 

Working quickly, they do all they can to make the house festive. They create homemade, personalized valentines for everyone in the family, Finally, they prepare treats for everyone ... cupcakes and frosting just in time for the family's return. Only one thing left to do. The children help each other decorate the kitchen door! Then, it is left for Mia to showcase the beauriful parlor and the valentines she and Mama made for everyone. Wait! Is there one for Mia?

Cheerful, warm artwork was created using watercolor, gouache, and pencil. The illustrations make for a cozy setting and a happy family. Happy Valentine's Day to you again. You can always add this to your 'celebrations' basket for next year at this time. 

No comments:

Post a Comment