Top Valentine's Day Books for Kids

February 14 Books and Stories for Ages 4-8

Dec 26, 2008 Irene Taylor

Share Valentine-themed stories and books with your children to start this February holiday off right.

Valentine’s Day will soon be here. What better way to get your kids into this February holiday spirit than by sharing some great Valentine’s Day-themed books at home or at school?

Below is a great list of books especially for the 4 through 8 year-old set.

Valentines Are For Saying I Love You

Valentines Are For Saying I Love You, by Margaret Sutherland and illustrated by Amy Wummer [Grosset & Dunlap, 2007], is a sweet story that will appeal especially to little girls in this age range. This follow-up to the Sunderland’s favorite, Thanksgiving Is for Giving Thanks [Grosset & Dunlap, 2000], tells the charming story of a little who learns the real meaning of Valentine’s Day by making I Love You cards for everyone she loves, including her puppy!

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day, by Anne Rockwell, illustrated by Lizzy Rockwell [HarperTrophy, 2002], is set in a classroom where students are making Valentines for “special friends” including their classmate Michiko who is visiting her family in Japan. Michiko responds to the cards by sending her classmates a special Valentine’s Day package with reminders of how this day is celebrated in Japan. This book is on a pre-K-grade 3 reading level.

Clifford's Valentine's Day

Who can resist Clifford the Big Red Dog? Clifford's Valentine's Day, by Norman Bridwell [Cartwheel Books, 2007], is really two stories in one, with both Clifford’s First Valentine’s Day and Clifford, We Love You. In characteristic style, Bridwell shares Valentine’s adventures with Clifford an his owner, Elizabeth Ann.

Arthur's Valentine

Arthur's Valentine, part of the Arthur Adventure Series by Marc Brown [Little, Brown Young Readers, 1988], is another perennial favorite. In this classic, Arthur tries to find out the identity of his secret admirer. His incorrect guesses cause him to be teased by his friends, but he later discovers who that secret admirer really is. This is a great read aloud book for home or school, and is perfect for ages 4-8.

The Day it Rained Hearts

The Day it Rained Hearts, written and illustrated by Felicia Bond [HarperCollins, 2001], tells the charming tale of Felicia and how she collects raindrop hearts and takes them home to make unique Valentines for her friends. The illustrations are especially lovely, adding to the sweetness of this special book.

The Night Before Valentine's Day

The Night Before Valentine's Day by Natasha Wing, illustrated by Heidi Petach [Grosset & Dunlap, 2001], is a take off on the Clement Moore poem, The Night Before Christmas. At night the children dream of Valentine treats and enjoy a party at school the next day. Another great read-aloud, this book is well suited for grades pre-K through 2.

Valentine Cards and Wishes

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful time for family and friends. Favorite holiday stories by Normal Bridwell, Marc Brown and Felicia Bond are just a start. After your children get into the Valentine’s Day spirit with these great books, have them make Valentine Cards to share with their friends and family members.

For more great February ideas, see Fun in February.

Tween reader? See Valentine’s Day Stories for Children for more great tween books on Valentine’s Day.

The copyright of the article Top Valentine's Day Books for Kids in Kids Activities is owned by Irene Taylor. Permission to republish Top Valentine's Day Books for Kids in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Arthur's Valentine