This Is Not a Valentine

This book is not a traditional valentine with lacey edges or sugary hearts. Instead, it is full of lucky rocks, secret hiding spots, and treasures from a gumball machine. It explores the idea of waiting in line, wishing for cinnamon buns, and the complexities of caring for someone and not wanting them to know. It delves into the realization that caring deeply about someone's perception might mean you truly do care, which is what love is about. As the book progresses, it suggests that maybe it is a valentine after all, celebrating handmade, wacky, bashful, honest love. This debut picture book from Carter Higgins and veteran Lucy Ruth Cummins makes a perfect gift to celebrate various relationships such as parent to child, sibling to sibling, and partner to partner.