Valentine Be Mine - Hardcover

Phyllis Limbacher Tildes is the author/illustrator of ANIMALS IN CAMOUFLAGE, BABY ANIMALS BLACK AND WHITE, as well as the illustrator of APPLES and PUMPKINS. She lives in Savannah, Georgia.

Don’t let the pink jacket and fancy script fool you. Farmer uses soundly researched facts far beyond the hearts and flowers normally associated with romantic love to explore the complex history of Valentine’s Day. She begins with the pagan and eventual Christian origins of the holiday, pointing out that no less than three different Roman bishops and priests named Valentine were martyred for their acts of love and devotion. Quotes from famous poets and writers are found in the margins, including many from Chaucer, who was reportedly the first to connect the holiday to romance. Two crafts, interspersed within the body of the book, help realize the urge to use this information for practical use; namely, a construction-paper valentine folded up like a mouse and a tissue-paper flower. Collage art that mimics old-fashioned Valentine’s illustrations is irresistible and references traditional symbols of Cupid, doves, and chocolate. The high-interest nature of many of the facts presented here may inspire students to explore the traditions and folklore associated with other common holidays. Grades 2-5. --Erin Anderson