Review - You Are My Happy

You Are My Happy
by Hoda Kotb
illustrated by Suzie Mason
Date: 2019
Publisher: HarperCollins
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 32
Format: e-book
Source: library

From Hoda Kotb, the Today show co-anchor and the #1 New York Times bestselling author of I’ve Loved You Since Forever, comes a book about gratitude for the things in life—both big and small—that bring us happiness.

As mama bear and her cub cuddle together before closing their eyes for a good night’s sleep, they reflect on the everyday wonders of life that make them happy.

Inspired by her own nighttime routine with her daughter, Haley Joy, Kotb creates another beautiful treasure for parents and children to enjoy together. With charming and lush illustrations from bestselling artist Suzie Mason, this soothing yet playful lullaby explores the simple joy of taking a moment to be grateful.

Perfect for fans of Ainsley Earhardt, Kelly Clarkson, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Jimmy Fallon’s books for children.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

I read I've Loved You Since Forever, the other book by this duo, last year. I don't think I like You Are My Happy quite as much. The writing isn't as strong (the use of the word "for" at the beginning of each sentiment is awkward), and I didn't feel very engaged with the text.

However, it would be a nice book to read together for winding down before bedtime. The illustrations are cute and appealing, and there are plenty of adorable animals to look at.

Premise: 3/5
Meter: 3/5
Writing: 3/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Originality: 4/5

Enjoyment: 3/5

Overall: 3.29 out of 5

Review - I've Loved You Since Forever

I've Loved You Since Forever
by Hoda Kotb
illustrated by Suzie Mason
Date: 2018
Publisher: HarperCollins
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 32
Format: e-book
Source: library

New York Times #1 Bestseller!

I've Loved You Since Forever is a celebratory and poetic testament to the timeless love felt between parent and child. This beautiful picture book is inspired by Today show co-anchor Hoda Kotb's heartwarming adoption of her baby girl, Haley Joy.

With Kotb's lyrical text and stunning pictures by Suzie Mason, young ones and parents will want to snuggle up and read the pages of this book together, over and over again.

In the universe,

there was you and

there was me,

waiting for the day our

stars would meet...

(synopsis from Goodreads)

This is a really, really quick read (seriously, it probably took me under a minute to get through). But it's a book I might go back to again, since the sentiment, the words, and the pictures are all quite strong. I can see this being a bedtime favourite, with kids looking at the cute pictures of young animals and their parents, and the gentle rhythmic narrative lulling them to sleep.

This one would make a lovely baby gift, too.

Premise: 4/5
Meter: 3/5
Writing: 4/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Originality: 4/5

Enjoyment: 4/5

Overall: 3.86 out of 5