I Will Love You Forever and Always by Sarah M. Thomas Mariano: #RWYK Certified Great Read – Book Review
Congratulations to Sarah M. Thomas Mariano!
I Will Love You Forever and Always is our latest Certified great Read!
LET’S HAVE A LOOK AT THE BOOK BLURB
“I Will Love You Forever and Always” provides a fun, easy platform for parents to converse with their children about the concept of unconditional love. Parents know the love they hold for their children never changes, even on days that are tough, days that are smelly and oh-so-yucky, days when nothing seems to go right, days of noticing we don’t look the same or days of noticing we like different things. However, children often need reassurance, reminder and repitition that they are loved unconditionally through such days and such moments.
The purpose of this book is to help children learn what it means to be loved unconditionally, and for parents to be given child-friendly words and language to facilitate these conversations with their children. The ultimate goal, if this book is used as a tool in the larger process, is that the parent-child emotional connection would be strengthened.
The book includes an activity page at the end, with the question, “What does forever and always love mean to me?” This prompt is intended to emphasize the points presented in the book and ensure the child understands the concepts presented. It is an opportunity for parents to connect the concepts presented in the book to their own circumstances and scenarios at home, and extend the conversation with their children beyond the story into an opportunity for further learning, discussion, connection and strengthening of the parent-child relationship.
About the author
Sarah M. Thomas Mariano is a child and family therapist. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from New York University. Sarah works with children, adolescents and families in an outpatient therapy setting, incorporating art and play therapy techniques into her work. Sarah wrote the award-winning book, “I Will Love You Forever and Always” as a tool to use in the therapeutic setting, to help children understand unconditional love and to give parents a fun and accessible platform from which to process this important concept with their children. “I Will Love You Forever and Always” won the Literary Titan Gold Book Award in October 2023.
HERE’S OUR REVIEW
A Heartwarming Tale of Unconditional Love – “I Will Love You Forever and Always” by Sarah M. Thomas Mariano
“I Will Love You Forever and Always” by Sarah M. Thomas Mariano is a heartwarming and beautifully written children’s book that explores the enduring nature of love between a parent and child, even in the face of challenges and differences. The author takes readers on a delightful journey through the ups and downs of life, emphasizing the unwavering love between a parent and child.
The narrative is filled with vivid imagery that captures the essence of both the joyous and challenging moments that life inevitably brings. From shimmying down waterslides and indulging in strawberry shortcake on spectacular days to enduring tough times filled with disagreements and messes, the story skillfully portrays the highs and lows of the parent-child relationship.
One of the most touching aspects of the book is the repetitive and reassuring refrain, “I will love you forever and always.” This phrase becomes a powerful mantra, emphasizing the unbreakable bond between parent and child, regardless of the difficulties they may face. The author’s use of repetition adds a comforting rhythm to the narrative, making it an engaging and soothing read-aloud experience for young readers.
The book beautifully addresses the inevitable messiness of life, both figuratively and literally. Whether it’s dealing with smelly feet, messy rooms, or days when nothing seems to go right, the underlying message remains constant – love perseveres. The unconditional acceptance of the child, with all their quirks and differences, sends a powerful message about embracing diversity and appreciating individuality.
The charming illustrations by Sarah Gledhill complement the narrative perfectly, bringing the characters and their emotions to life. The contrasting appearances and preferences of the alligator parent and child are portrayed with warmth and humor, reinforcing the idea that love transcends external differences.
“I Will Love You Forever and Always” is not just a children’s book; it’s a celebration of the universal theme of unconditional love. Sarah M. Thomas Mariano has crafted a timeless and emotionally resonant story that will undoubtedly become a cherished addition to family libraries, offering comfort and reassurance to both parents and children alike.
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