Little Hearts: Finding Hearts in Nature

Over a hill and through a rose lane, a strawberry field, a marsh meadow, and a bushy vale are just a few of the places a group of sweet-faced, dot-eyed animal friends spot natural cordiform-shaped marvels in this appreciation of the great outdoors. After a map opens, readers are invited to join the critters' nature walk--and perhaps undertake one of their own--with the beginning words: "The world is full of little hearts./ Each one a sign of love.// Some are found upon the ground./ Some are up above." In a series of brief rhyming lines that sustain an air of wonder, Ghigna describes the animals' exploration of their surroundings, high and low: "See the swans out on the lake/ Swimming in the sun.// Two of them together make/ A little heart of one." Strawberries, a ladybug, a four-leaf clover, and "a sweet bouquet of butterflies" appear as appropriately shaped treasures discovered in East's pastel, softly sunlit paintings. It's a shape-centric wander with hearts at its heart. Ages 3-6. (Nov.)

"Gentle rhymes and illustrations with the look of soft water colors in primarily pastel colors are a perfect fit for this sensitive exploration of nature. . . . . Hearts abound in this tale . . . Alliteration and simple, elegant rhymes create a pleasing melody and fun read-aloud. Little ones will eagerly snuggle up to enjoy this with a cherished caregiver; it also makes a wonderful option for a small-group storytime to allow close inspection of the illustrations. A joyful friendship tale begging to be read on Valentine's Day or before a thoughtful nature walk or even a nap." -Kirkus Reviews

"Over a hill and through a rose lane, a strawberry field, a marsh meadow, and a bushy vale are just a few of the places a group of sweet-faced, dot-eyed animal friends spot natural cordiform-shaped marvels in this appreciation of the outdoors . . . appropriately shaped treasure discovered in East's pastel, softly sunlit paintings. It's a shape-centric wander with hearts at its heart." -Publishers Weekly

"Written in rhyming stanzas, and visually enriched by soft gentle illustrations, this book encourages little ones to slow down and take their time as they delight in hidden heart-shaped gifts that are just waiting to be discovered. . . .would be fantastic to share for Valentine's Day or any day! I love this book and highly recommend it."-Storywraps