LIKE SO

“We got love like so.”

A Black-presenting grandparent and grandchild have endless love for one another. Forman punctuates each sentence with the refrain “like so”: “I kiss you like so / you kiss me like so // I hug you like so // you hug me like so.” The text has a rhythmic cadence that readers will enjoy; they’ll eagerly anticipate the refrain and will be chiming in by book’s end. Figueroa’s art subtly conveys the passing of time as we see the pair through all four seasons and during both day and night. In one scene, they share a good-night embrace while the child’s parents look on smiling; in another, the pair prepares pancakes in the kitchen. The two spend time in nature, too, holding hands while watching a butterfly alight on a sunflower and walking along the beach in the moonlight. Through it all, their love is unwavering, reflected in their hugs, kisses, and declarations. Figueroa employs a gorgeous gradient of colors. The illustrations have a watercolorlike feel, with an ephemeral mist that swirls across the page. One spread depicts the night sky filled with stars and planets, with the shape of a heart superimposed—an especially tender page. Soothing and affirming, this is an ideal offering for a loving adult to share with a little one.

Perfect for a cuddly story hour or a cozy bedtime read.