Greenfield, Eloise. "Honey, I Love". Illus. Gilchrist, Jan Spivey. Harper Collins, 2003.

This book is written in verse and tells of the many things a young child loves. The young girl tells of her love for her cousin, her love for playing with friends, and spending time with family. At the end she shares self confidence as she says, "And honey, I love ME , too."

This book reminds us that love can be found in many places. The story is told from a young African American child's perspective and speaks in the African American voice. Written by an insider, the rhytmn is consistent with the speech of this culture and will appeal to African American readers. The book is one a child of any race or gender can appreciate as it explores the various things in life that bring us pleasure. The watercolor pictures are a great touch to the story as they extend the text and show the emotion of the characters. This book represents a culture that values family bondage and will touch the hearts of all readers. I would suggest this book as appropriate for young readers as the final page gives a valuble lesson to always love yourself!