Books for the ones you love

I Love You Through and Through by Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak, illustrated by Caroline Jayne Church (©2005, Scholastic). This book is a fun way to share love with your toddler this Valentine's Day-or any day. Charming and funny illustrations show a child loved, "through and through," inside and outside, silly and mad, giggling and crying. With short verses, entertaining pictures, and sturdy pages, this book is certain to please both toddler and parent.

Mama Loves You by Caroline Stutson, illustrated by John Segal (©2005, Scholastic). Mamas from all walks of life, from bugs to polar bears, show their love to their little ones in this beautifully illustrated book. Simple verses on every page give new light to a mother's love, telling children "You're my star, my moon, my sun. Mama loves you, little one."

Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney (©1982, Puffin) is a book you will hold dear to your heart long after the last page is turned. Not only for its message of love, but for the well-crafted story and brilliant illustrations. The story follows Miss Rumphius as she grows up from a little girl to an aged aunt, trying to fulfill her grandfather's wish for her to "do something to make the world more beautiful." She succeeds, not with any grand sweeping gestures, but with something simple and true. Her love for the world around her is apparent in everything she does, making this an excellent book for the whole family to appreciate.