Lola Dutch I Love You So Much

November 1, 2019
Lola Dutch has many ways of communicating her love to her friends. When each of her anthropomorphic animal friends starts the day grumpy, Lola (a human girl) knows just what to do, and readers of Gary Chapman's popular 5 Love Languages books will recognize them. She sews cozy pajamas for chilly Gator (receiving gifts), arranges Crane's strewn-about books in a "Book Nook" (acts of service), organizes an outing to the park for Pig (quality time), and gives Bear a hug (physical touch). In return, her four friends celebrate just how much they appreciate and love her with a banner and a cake (words of affirmation). The rear copyright page includes a small, easily overlooked paragraph citing the book's inspiration and asking readers how they feel loved and show love to their friends. No information is given about how to determine which love language to use in different situations or with different people. The loosely outlined illustrations are a delight because of the expressive characters and Lola Dutch's infectious exuberance. Lola is pale-skinned with a brown pageboy. The dust jacket unfolds to show a party scene, Bear and Crane preprinted on the page. Lola Dutch and Gator are paper dolls that can be cut out along with a loving note to share with someone special. Pig is absent. Love can be shared in so many ways; reading this together is a start. (Picture book. 3-7)

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December 16, 2019
Lola Dutch’s friends Gator, Crane, and Pig are all having a grouchy day, and eternally cheerful Lola (who “loves her friends SO MUCH”) is determined to make them happy. Lola sews a cozy outfit for “cranky and cold” Gator, creates a bathtub book nook for Crane (who cannot “find her favorite book”), and takes Pig (who feels “left out”) on an outing that ends in rain—and, more happily, splashy puddles. She returns home, works to offer Bear “the perfect gift,” and receives a special surprise from her friends in return. Inspired by Gary Chapman’s The Five Love Languages, married cocreators Kenneth and Sarah Jane Wright craft a warm story that centers on making others feel loved. Lola’s yen for friend pleasing and refrain of “I love you so much” grows saccharine, but Sarah Jane Wright’s energetic pencil, gouache, and watercolor illustrations conjure a confection that’s airy, light, and sweet. Heavy on the message, but uplifting nonetheless. Ages 3–6.