Richly illustrated, plump and adorable animal children find themselves comforted in distressing situations by declarations of love in this charming picture book. When you've lost most every race, scary monsters haunt your dreams, or grumpy grouches spoil the fun, it's the magical three words I love you, spoken by adoring parents, that turn the emotional tide. Each time the phrase I love you is introduced, Pearce describes it with a different adjective, such as mighty, friendly, or winning, which emphasizes the myriad ways unconditional love can rescue upsetting moments. A final page spread, which features every animal family together, encourages reciprocal affection, with an I love you too! Beardshaw's cozy illustrations, which appear to be a combination of cut-paper collage and warm-toned paints, are whimsical and cute and contribute to the overall genial atmosphere. The bouncy rhythm makes it fun to read aloud, especially since little ones will easily catch on to the repeated refrain. Great for any time a kiddo needs a boost of confidence.--Miller, Annie Copyright 2015 Booklist

PreS-Forest animals in colorful, patterned clothing learn that those who love them can provide needed comfort when they are feeling lonely or discouraged. The story opens with a young raccoon who feels sad and helpless when he is to unable to reach any fruit on the tree. "When you feel so very small,/when no one seems to care at all,/what can make you ten feet tall? 3 little words..."I love you." His basket is now filled with fruit after riding on top of Dad's head. A little red fox is crying because he fell down while racing an adorable badger and a little mouse in a red sweat suit. But three words make him feel better: "I love you!" This kit is now being held up high by Mom and Dad while wearing a gold star on his blue jogging suit. Animals including beavers, rabbits and hedgehogs find themselves in uncomfortable situations but are all soothed by the three key words. The sweet illustrations are as comforting as the rhyming text. The book ends by describing a few difficult situations involving other people, where four little words, not three, are called for: "I love you too!"-Robin Sofge, Alexandria Library, VA (c) Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.