We’ve all had that sunny “moment”: the feeling of sheer joy as we unwrap a special gift. Most of us associate presents with items wrapped in smooth paper and tied with pretty bows. But sometimes the greatest gift of all turns out to be something wrapped simply in our arms.

Written beautifully by former award-winning teacher Glyncora Murphy, “I Love You Favorite Present” helps children understand the abstract concept of love by building a bridge between the love children feel for their favorite presents and the love parents or caregivers feel for their children.

Meant to be read to a child by a loved one, this story begins with a whimsical show-and-tell of favorite presents, continues with a description of a mysterious “favorite” present, and ends with the sweetest of surprises. The reader reveals that the mysterious and beloved present is actually the child!

Parents and/or loved ones can add a photo of their child to a pre-drawn frame, one of the lovely images by illustrator Jesse Stern. This way, the child becomes part of the story – in essence the “heart” of the book.

 “I Love You Favorite Present” tenderly connects the love children feel for their favorite presents with the love parents feel for their child. This beautiful picture book is rich in diversity, helps children build phonemic awareness and vocabulary, and ultimately fosters the growth of healthy self-esteem by reminding children that they are loved, they are valued, and they matter. With dazzling imagery and tender words, it is sure to become a favorite on your child’s bookshelf.

Stay tuned for upcoming Baby Blanket Press releases including the highly anticipated Happy Beeing Me.

A portion of each sale from “I Love You, Favorite Present” will be donated to The Pablove Foundation in support of the Pablove Shutterbugs program. Pablove Shutterbugs teaches children living with cancer to develop their creative voice through the art of photography. To learn more about Pablove Shutterbugs visit: pablove.org/shutterbugs.