Summer Reading - If You're Groovy and You Know It, Hug a Friend

Since today is Global Hug Your Kids Day, this book is a great "fit". I have long been a big "fan" of picture books. If you are able to combine a fun story with colorful illustrations, well, I am likely to like the book. I do not believe it is ever truly possible to outgrow an excellent picture book - just because the book was written for children ages three to five, it does not mean a grandma will not also enjoy the book. In fact, I am fully convinced all picture books should include "grandmas" when it lists the ages for whom the book is written!

With all of this in mind, when I had the opportunity to select a few books from Scholastic to review and review, I just had to ask for the book I'm reviewing today . . . and I am SO happy they sent it to me!

If You're Groovy and You Know It, Hug a Friend
Author - Eric Litwin
Illustrator - Tom Lichtenheld
Publisher - Orchard Books/Scholastic
Ages - 3-5 . . . and grandmas!

Favorite Features -

• Text is built around the familiar and loved song; "If You're Happy and You Know It".
• Illustrations are wonderful - full of color and detail - children will love all the animals and how they are busy showing they are "groovy".
• This is a book to sing - not just read!

Orchard Books/Scholastic says; "'If you're groovy and you know it, the things you do will show it!' #1 New York Times bestsellers Eric Litwin (Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes) and Tom Lichtenheld (Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site) are back, and adding a groovy twist to the classic children's song "If You're Happy and You Know It." This story will have little ones singing, dancing, and grooving along to a new favorite beat. Signature rhyme, repetition, and musical writing style, combined with wild and witty illustrations, come together to create a character which will have you singing all day long. Groovy Joe is back, ready to get groovy!"

I love If You're Groovy and You Know It, Hug a Friend! Not only does it have all the things I look for in a picture book for children . . . and grandmas, but this book provides a wonderful opportunity to have important conversations with grandchildren about how the things we do show what is inside of us . . . show others the person we are. If You're Groovy and You Know It, Hug a Friend also provides a terrific opportunity to have some fun with your grandchildren by helping them be creative. How fun will it be for them to make their own "Groovy" song, by coming up with the things they will show when they are "Groovy"! Be sure to have paper and markers ready, and your phone, so you are able to make your own books!

If You're Groovy and You Know It, Hug a Friend is absolutely a book you will want to give your grandchildren, and a book you will want to keep in your own library to enjoy with them when they are at your house.