The Yuckiest, Stinkiest, Best Valentine Ever by Brenda Ferber {Giveaway Winner Announced}

 

THE YUCKIEST, STINKIEST, BEST VALENTINE EVER by Brenda Ferber, illustrated by Tedd Arnold is a picture book for kids ages 3 up. 
In this story, Leon has a crush. A let-her-cut-in-line-at-the-water-fountain kind of crush. And he's got the perfect valentine. But this valentine has no intention of getting caught up in any romantic conspiracy. "Love is yucky, kid! Valentine's Day is all about CANDY!" the card yells at Leon, before leaping out the window and running away, leaving Leon to chase it across town, collecting interested kids along the way.

While this book will appeal to both girls and boys, I love that this book centers around a boy, who isn't afraid of his little feelings! My sons actually really enjoyed this story, it had my first grader Josh giggling the whole time. It might, just maybe, have gotten my seventh grader to crack a smile as well.
The story is a bit reminiscent of the classic gingerbread man story, with the child chasing the Valentine Man down the road, but instead of a less than happy ending for the gingerbread man, this Valentines story has a sweet twist at the end. 
The illustrations by Tedd Arnold are bright, cheerful, and totally relevant kids style today. The main character is even sporting a cute shaggy Beiber-esque hairstyle. It's got a bit of a comic book style, but the story is very easy to read and follow. Josh wants to take our copy to his class to read before Valentines Day, and his teacher has happily agreed to read it to them.

Be sure to check out Brenda Ferber's website to download a FREE activity kit related to this story, including a word search, Valentine Man craft, Valentines, and MORE, as well as read an entire Q & A session with the author,

The best part of all, you can enter to WIN your own copy of The Yuckiest, Stinkiest, Best Valentine Ever. 
(contest dates 1/26/13- 2/6/13 at 11:59PM) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway     was given a copy of this story for review, and was not required to give a positive review.  All of my opinions stated are 100% my own.  If you'd like you may read my full disclosure policy HERE.

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