Saint Valentine the Kindhearted is my last read of 2023 and finishes off my year with a message of peace and love with this Christian non fiction book for children.

Most people know Valentine's Day is on 14 February and traditionally the day is about romantic love and material gifts. I would image that few (and I include myself in that number) know the details behind the day and the saint that it was named after.

Saint Valentine's was a trailblazer in Rome, standing up for his faith despite the danger and realities of prison. His kind heart is demonstrated in the determined perseverance in taking care of people in need and sharing the love of God. For this he was martyred. Saint Valentine's actions of love in action (deeds) and the written form (letters) is diluted into the commercialisation of the day that bears his name.

This rhyming poem reclaims that day by firmly citing it in love for others as revealed in Saint Valentine's life. Historical details are scares but the brief records including one or two notable events reveal the person behind the myth.

I loved the illustrations and author's note at the end which explained the different types of love. This book is recommended for all ages and isn't limited to those with a an interest in Christianity or history.

My thanks to InterVarsity Press/IVP Kids and NetGalley for a digital advance copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

This was a cute short read :) while providing information in an easy to understand manner it doesn't feel preachy. I wasn't the biggest fan of the illustration style, however the contents of the book were wonderful

The author seemed to be focused more on the information he wanted to include, and the rhymes were an afterthought. As a result, the rhymes are clunky and they don't all flow naturally off the tonuge. I found it to be a difficult read in many places. Note that this book takes a religious stance on history. Valentine supposedly loves everyone, but does not hesitate to condemn those with different beliefs, or ask their statues of their gods to be destroyed.

★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared in Grandpappy's Corner at The Irresponsible Reader.
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WHAT'S SAINT VALENTINE THE KINDHEARTED ABOUT?
Why do we call our celebration of love on February 14th (St.) Valentine's Day? Why do we use February 14th, for that matter?

Ned Bustard brings us another Picture-Book Biography to teach young readers about Valentine, who was martyred under Claudius on February 14.

Granted, we don't know a lot about Valentine and his work, but we have enough to fill this book (and, as I recall from wordier historical treatments, not much more). We get a touch of his early life, a look at his ministry (and the Roman culture), a notable miracle that's ascribed to him, and a bit about the events leading to his martyrdom. All told in a child-appropriate rhyme.

LET'S TALK ABOUT THE ART FOR A MINUTE
Bustard's cartoon-y art is as great here as it was in his Saint Patrick the Forgiver . The thing that stands out to me is his inking. (at least that's what we called it back when I was really into comics and talked about the art, hopefully it still counts). The way he uses bold lines around his character's faces/bodies (particularly Valentine's), really makes them pop off the page and almost look like wooden puppets. (that's the best I can do as far as describing the pictures)

He's also able to convey a certain amount of unpleasantness and threat with Roman soldiers without changing the overall feel of the story and its appropriateness for young readers.

Now, in the Patrick book, he worked in a lot of Celtic knots and whatnot to give it a more Irish feel. Here he goes for a lot of differently colored hearts all over the pages. It didn't even occur to me while reading the book to pay attention to that--it fit the overall Feb. 14th vibe. I should've known better--thankfully, he explained it in "A Note from the Author," so when I read this with the Grandcritter I can seem more knowledgeable. He works in these hearts in different colors to represent the four types of love (eros, storge, philia, and agape) from ancient Greek thought (and a pretty good book by C.S. Lewis), showing how Valentine displayed and interacted with these types of love in various episodes in the book.

You can check out the Publisher's site for a glimpse at the art and layout as a preview. Which will probably give you a better idea than anything I just tried to convey.

HOW IS TO READ ALOUD?
It's a nice little bit of rhyming text, and starting off with "Roses are red," as often as he does, you're going to get right into the rhythm reflexively. Which is a nice touch. Some of the rhymes feel like a stretch to me*, but when you've got a good head of steam going as you read you probably won't notice.

* ago and van Gogh, really? Also, that only works if you use they American pronunciation, sorry British readers.

SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT SAINT VALENTINE THE KINDHEARTED?
I enjoyed this. I do wish we had more history to draw from for Bustard to use here (and, well, other historians writing for older audiences, too), just to fill out some of the details reliably. But this is a good introduction to the figure that's had such a cultural impact so that even younger readers can know there's basis to the celebration beyond chalky candies and silly drawings.

I don't have a lot to say about this beyond that. It's a fun read for the little folks, it has details and layers that older readers can appreciate and use to talk about bigger ideas with the little ones, too. Color me impressed yet again by Bustard and I'm eager to see what holiday/figure he picks next. Anyone trying to bring Early Church figures to the attention of the pre-K crowd deserves some applause and I'm happy to keep giving it, while gladly recommending you jump on board.

Disclaimer: I received this eARC from InterVarsity Press via NetGalley in exchange for this post—thanks to both for this.

Saint Valentine the Kindhearted gives a glimpse of Imperial Rome and a little history of Valentine's Day. The book focuses on the life of St. Valentine and his work in spreading Christianity. Each page has a little poem to set the reader for the next nugget about Valentine's life. A perfect addition to a child's library.

Ned Bustard has done it again with gorgeous illustrations and a lovely story that brings a historical figure to life. I loved learning about Saint Valentine through this book, with additional information in the notes at the end. Bustard's illustrations are vibrant and filled with symbolism. I liked how the author's note at the end encouraged adults to help children to think through the different kids of loving using colour coded hearts throughout the book.

In the brightly colored and beautifully rendered little book, “Saint Valentine the Kindhearted, poet and illustrator, Ned Bustard, presents the story of the AD 200 Roman evangelist of Jesus Christ, Valentine, in a playful, yet personal and relevant manner that is appropriate—not preachy—for children (and adults) of all ages. This sweet biographical account of Valentine, shares the “miracles” that he performed and why we celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14 each year with sentimental words, cards and gifts of love.

JoyReaderGirl1 graciously thanks NetGalley, Author and Artist Ned Bustard, and Publisher InterVarsity Press for this advanced reader’s copy (ARC) for review.

This picture book teaches children about the true history and legends surrounding Saint Valentine, with woodcut-style illustrations and rhyming text. Some of the rhymes are forced, but the book shares helpful historical context and teaches about the ways that Valentine showed God's love. The author's note at the end shares even more historical information, and also explores the different Greek words for love and what they mean. This will appeal to families and Christian schools that want to teach kids about the original Christian roots of Valentine's Day.

St. Valentine the Kind Hearted is just as thought-provoking and fun as the other two in this "series": St. Patrick the Forgiver and St. Nicholas the Gift Giver. I appreciate this book that showcases Ned Bustard's wit and wise style of explaining deep truths at a level both parents and their children can enjoy! Much appreciate the activities suggested as well and of course, the graphics! Let me not forget to mention the sweet dedication to his late wife.

With the world promoting such an emphasis on the commercialized, Hallmark version of Valentines Day, I deeply value Ned's attention to the holiday's actual roots and the person we should be looking to appreciate and emulate - Valentine, whose example of loving God well invoked his life's ministry of loving others well.

If you enjoy any of the other books aforementioned, or just quite simply, enjoy Ned Bustard, you will not be disappointed adding this book to your shelf. :-) I am looking forward to purchasing a physical copy to enjoy with my son for many years to come.

*I have no qualms with the material presented in this book but it does kind of bother me that the two titles flow better than this one..."Forgiver...Gift Giver". This is the reason for four stars rather than five. Appreciate his respect and usage for that Oxford comma, though. ;-)

P.S. -

Ned,
If you read this, please consider doing a Martin Luther one?!

Sincerely,
a devoted to your books-loving mom.

The illustrations in this book are lovely, I love the caricature designs. The storyline was fun & catchy, great storytelling. A brilliant little book to educate on Christianity, God's love & Valentine's day. I am not religious myself, but I can definitely see the value in the lessons behind this book.

Lovely illustrations and beautiful words used to take children through the tale of St Valentine. The poetry is great, and it bounces along the page in a joyous and memorable way. The kindness of St Valentine is shown through the rhyme in an appealing way.

Not just a children's book. Consider this one a gift book for all ages on Valentine's Day. An interesting premise, here's an opportunity for folks to learn a bit about the genesis of Valentine's Day. Told entirely in rhyme, sometimes the verses seem a wee bit forced (but forgivable). And if for children, the word "disconcerting" might be above some reading levels. But what choices does one have to find a word that rhymes with "hurting?"

All in all, we still give it 5 stars for creativity, engaging illustrations, being a novel topic, and a good reminder to love well.

I had so much fun reading this book, the story is so adorable and the illustrations were so well done and charming, there’s so many little details in every page that I couldn’t stop but be mesmerized by it all. I will definitely be recommending it! Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this early copy

I really enjoyed this book with told stories told of the life of St. Valentine and how he preached love of each other and support of the poor and sick. It's because of how he refused to give up his beliefs in the face of the roman Empire that he was martyred and we now celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14. The story is told through rhymes, and the illustrations are really nice. They aren't the usual style of illustration for a kids book but I think they are really beautiful.
I think kids will enjoy this book and learning about St Valentine and that loving others is most important.

I recieved an advanced copy of this book through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

A cute rhyming book about the life of Saint Valentine. A good book for kids (and adults alike) to learn about who Saint Valentine was and why we now celebrate Valentine's Day. A good book to read especially around Valentine's Day but can be enjoyed year round.

I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Saint Valentine the Kindhearted is the delightful story of St Valentine, told in rhyme. While not much is historically known for certain, this is based on some stories that might hold some truth to them. It is an exploration of a man who loved the people around him and spread the word of God. When he was jailed, he often send letters to the people he loved, which is loosely where we get our modern holiday from.

This is a great way to show children the different ways that people can show their love to family, friends, and the people around them, with a heavily religious theme. I liked the illustrations - they feel like ancient Rome. The rhyming verse is catching and engaging. Fun story!

Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this advanced review copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review on the book!

Saint Valentine the Kindhearted shares the legend of God’s brave and loving servant named Valentine.

Valentine’s story is told through poems which have a fun rhyme. He was born in Terni, Italy, and lived during a time when Rome had many gods. He praised only one God and spread God’s love and word. With his kind heart, he prayed for God to bring healing to those who needed it.

Under leader Claudius love and commitment were seen as sign of weakness. Despite that Valentine spread the blessing of marriage.

When thrown into jail, Valentine continued to praise love in short notes.

“Love is patient.”
“Love is kind.”

He signed his notes, “from your Valentine.” He sent those notes to folks in every direction.

He was buried on February 14th. Thus, we celebrate love on this day to “recall the kind saint who loved one and all.”

Very little is known about the real Saint Valentine, and yet such profound story was created about him through poems. Those loving and rhyming poems are beautiful commemoration of someone who was a noble figure thorough his acts, spreading love and kindness even when death threatened him.

The illustrations are unique in a form of stained glass window, which reflect well the whole story and its meaning.

This is a charming way to introduce children to a legendary figure who was selfless and very generous with his acts. This book is intended for audience 4-8 years old.

All you need is love
All you need is love
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
-John Lennon

"...Val served God above by living out a life of love."

The true life of Saint Valentine seemed enigmatic. Legend had it that Claudius II issued a decree forbidding marriage. Only unmarried soldiers would populate his armies. Valentine however, believed in the sanctity of marriage and continued to secretly perform and bless marriages.

Valentine performed healing miracles. He restored the sight of a judge's daughter. The judge then gathered forty family members to be baptized in the sea by Val.

Literature suggests that by refusing to renounce his faith, Valentine was jailed. In his cell, he scribed messages on scraps of paper, messages to be widely disseminated, all signed From your Valentine. He was martyred on February 14, 270 AD in Italy.

The impactful message of love delivered in the children's book "Saint Valentine the Kindhearted", retold and illustrated by Ned Bustard, might have resonated more with this reader had the delivery been written in prose rather than poetically rendered. The poetry seemed disjoint and distracting rather than working together with the colorful illustrations.

Thank you InterVarsity Press/IVP Kids and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is a lovely book; beautifully illustrated by the author and wonderfully capturing the themes of love associated through the life and ministry of Saint Valentine.

Using the limited sources available to build a biography of this Saint the summary brings this all together. Indeed “A note from the author” is perhaps the best part of the collective words used to tell this story.

I understand why poetry was used to convey the narrative but it sadly fails due to the poor construction and desire to keep to the same 8 line format. It makes for a clumpy and disjointed read. When poetic verse is done well it adds so much to the story. Here it has the opposite effect.

Approaching the book for he first time, I would read the author’s note first as it puts it into perspective, and then, just struggle through the verse focusing on the coloured hearts which transform the story and give it extra meaning.

It is well worth reading and has a good Christian message from the faithful servant Valentine who sought to share God’s love. It is indeed how we receive love and affection that enables us in return to love others and why more books like this one are needed to remind us of that and find such unconditional love in our hearts.

Loved the art, and felt the narrative blending history, biography, and faith worked well. I just wish the author had written in prose rather than poetry - it felt at times as though the story was being shoehorned in to rhymes!