Children's Book Review: A String of Hearts

A String of Hearts
Written by:  Laura Malone Elliott
Illustrated by: Lynn Munsinger
Published by: Katherine Tegen Books, 2010
32 pages

from goodreads.com:
Valentines come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some are homemade and some are store-bought. Some are funny and some are not. Sam wants to give just the right valentine to the most popular girl in the class, Tiffany. But what kind is the right kind? Mary Ann helps Sam figure out how to make all sorts of valentines. But will Tiffany even notice Sam if he gives her a special valentine?

Laura Malone Elliott and Lynn Munsinger's charming story shows how the best friends are often the ones you may not know you have--until Valentine's Day --and even a simple string of hearts can show a friend how special he is.

* As we were reading this, part of the story reminded us of Roses are Pink, You're Feet Really Stink where the teacher wanted the students to write something nice about each classroom, and Sam couldn't find something nice to say about some of his classmates.  For a story geared towards 4-7 year olds, I wasn't a fan of the use of the "popular" girl in the story or the fact that Sam had somewhat of a crush on Tiffany, yet she barely acknowledged him.  I do like how Sam realizes how important his true friends are to him, but even the ending hints at possible romance?!!  Overall, not a big fan of this story.

Family Rating:  Thumbs down!