Today is Red Rose Day, a day to show appreciation to the people in our lives who we love, whether family or friends. This weeks’ books all link to the different kinds of love and connections we encounter through life.
My first choice is This Table by Alex Killian, illustrated by Brooke Smart, a truly beautiful picture book that gently celebrates the quiet power of love and connection in our everyday lives. Beginning as something small – a seed that grows into a tree – the story follows the transformation of that tree into a table, and then into the heart of a home.
What makes this book so special is the way it captures the ordinary moments that mean the most. Around this table, life unfolds: birthday candles are blown out, science projects are carefully completed and shared meals bring people together day after day. The table becomes more than just furniture; it becomes a witness to family life, holding laughter, learning and love within its sturdy frame.
Brooke Smart’s warm, detailed illustrations perfectly complement the gentle, lyrical text, creating a cosy sense of belonging on every page. It’s a story that invites us to pause and appreciate the objects and places that anchor our own family connections.
A lovely choice for sharing, this book is a quiet reminder that love often grows in the simplest spaces, gathered together, around something as familiar as a table.
My next choice is Ten-Word Tiny Tales of Love by Joseph Coelho, a truly special little treasure that proves just how powerful words can be, even when there are only ten of them. Each tiny tale captures a moment of love and connection, whether it’s between siblings, friends, family members or even beloved pets, and invites readers to pause, reflect and imagine the story beyond the page.
What makes this book so engaging is its simplicity. With just a handful of carefully chosen words, each story opens up a whole world of meaning. Children (and adults!) will find themselves discussing what might have happened before, what comes next and how the characters are feeling, making it a wonderful way to spark conversation and creativity at home.
The wide range of talented illustrators brings each tale to life in a unique and colourful way, adding depth and warmth to every page. Together, the words and pictures celebrate the many forms love can take, reminding us that connection can be found in the smallest moments.
With creative writing activities included, this is a joyful and inspiring book that encourages everyone to share stories, ideas and, most importantly, love.
And finally, I’ve chosen The Heart Of The Storm by Teresa Heapy, illustrated by Kate Reed, a powerful and beautifully told picture book that explores how love and connection can grow in the most unexpected places.
At first, Ruby the fox and Growl the wolf cannot stand each other – their sharp words and stubbornness keep them firmly apart. However, when a fierce storm crashes into the forest, everything changes.
As thunder roars and danger surrounds them, survival becomes more important than rivalry. In a moving turn, Ruby and Growl begin to help one another, showing courage, kindness and trust when it matters most. Through these small but significant actions, their hatred slowly melts away, replaced by a growing understanding and connection.
The storytelling is both dramatic and gentle, perfectly balanced with Kate Read’s striking illustrations, which capture the chaos of the storm alongside the warmth of the characters’ changing relationship. Children will be drawn into the tension of the moment, while also reflecting on the powerful message at its heart.
This is a lovely story to share at home, reminding us that even in difficult times, kindness can bring people together. A thoughtful celebration of empathy, friendship and the unexpected ways love can take root.
Happy reading!
