Cancer Hates Kisses

July 15, 2017
This is a much-needed title about a disease that affects too many families. In this multiracial family, it's Mama, a white woman, who's battling cancer. The children narrate in short, descriptive statements. The very first comment captures their admiration for their mother and their optimism about the outcome: "Mama is a cancer-fighting superhero." They maintain this tone throughout, keeping young readers' fears at bay. In addition, watercolor-and-ink drawings that range from vignettes to full spreads are painted in soft, comforting pastel colors. Mama bravely goes to the doctor for tests, keeps up her daily routine, even undergoes surgery in a hospital with a diverse staff. In a touching scene in the hospital, the children kiss Mama's "warrior wounds," as "Cancer hates kisses," with their father, an Asian man, and grandmother also in loving attendance. Mama's cheerleaders are honest when they acknowledge that the treatments, especially chemo, exhaust their mother, make her lose her hair, and make her cry sometimes. Then the family does combat together, with dance parties and jokes. The book provides just the right amount of information about what to expect and balances that with an outline of how the family can offer support and love--because what cancer hates most is love. Closing with notes from a cancer specialist and the author, a cancer survivor, this book with its positive message is a must-have for all collections serving families. (Picture book. 5-8)

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October 1, 2017

PreS-Gr 1- As a woman bravely battles cancer, her loving family stands with her every step of the way. The kids knows their mother is no ordinary mom; to them she is a "cancer fighting superhero!" She is brave, even when she needs surgery. Afterwards, the children kiss her "warrior wounds." When her hair falls out after chemo, they tell her she looks fierce. Sometimes she is tired and sad, but cancer hates dance parties, so they dance the tears away. Fighting cancer is hard work, but cancer hates compliments, and hugs, and high fives, and together their family has the superhero strength to fight the disease. An approachable and empowering story that describes the hardships that cancer brings and meets each one with a equally empowering affirmation such as "cancer hates kisses" and "cancer hates laughter." The book skillfully pushes through the fear and confusion and helps readers focus on how they can support their loved one. The cheery, light, watercolor-wash illustrations create a cozy and comforting mood as the story follows the family through the stages of treatment and recovery. Endpapers include a note from a cancer specialist with information for caregivers on talking about cancer with their children and a note from the author describing her own experience battling breast cancer after the birth of her daughter. VERDICT An indispensable tool for parents and caregivers and a must-buy for most collections.- Laken Hottle, Providence Community Library

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