I Love You Because You're You

A mother pledges her unwavering love for her child in a simple, yet wonderfully affirming poem that covers the gamut of emotions expressed by young children. Simply wrought verses arranged in rhyming couplets encompass everything from wanton silliness tomore somber moods. Baker's language is perfectly suited to the preschooler; what the verses lack in eloquence they make up for in sincerity. The giggle factor is high as Baker slects examples that are bound to tickle your funny bones: "I love you when you're frisky / and standing on your head." Others are reassuring: " I love youwhen you're angry/ and cross your arms and pout." Regardless of the actions described and the humor employed, the constancy of the mother's love is readily apparent, a message that is clearly communicated to young readers. McPhail's (Bubblegum, Delicious, not reviewed, etc.) illustrations feature a pair of ruddy foxes, quaintly attired in the slightly more formal apparel of yesteryear, lending the pictures an old-fashioned feel. Jewel colored tonesinvigorate crisp drawings that comically depict the young kit's antics. Baker's repetition of reassurances is bound to make any child feel cherished.

--Kirkus Reviews, October 15th, 2001



A mother fox's affection for her little one is played out in greeting-card sentiments and McPhail's (If You Were My Bunny) winning artwork. Reassuring quatrains ("I love you when you're sad/ and need a kiss and hug./ I love you when you're playful/ and rolling on the rug") convey her unconditional love. McPhail's cozy watercolor illustrations offer tangible examples of the child's many moods, as when the "bashful' youngster hides behind the mother's knee as guests arrive, or gazes up at her when presenting her with a valentine ("I love you when you're proud,/your head held in the air'). In this warm and fuzzy hug of a-book, a parent's love knows no bounds.

--Publishers Weekly, October 15, 2001