Speaking The Voice Of Love

Myra here.

While I have read this picturebook a few months back, I was waiting for the exact right moment to share it.

Have I Ever Told You? [Amazon | Book Depository]

Written by Shani King Illustrated by Anna Horvath
Published by Tilbury House Publishers (2019)
ISBN: 0884487199 (ISBN13: 9780884487197). Borrowed from NLB Overdrive. Book photos taken by me.

As we feature voices from the fringe, I thought it was important to also feature voices of optimism, love, and courage. This book is narrated by an adult to a loved young human, expressing messages of affection and encouragement, coupled with the constant gentle question “Have I ever told you?”

As a parent, I am moved by how there is this concerted effort to shelter and protect the young child, without being overbearing – simply a desire to enclose one in warmth and comfort, with gentle hands guiding one home.

I also like how the affirming message does not only lift up the young reader, but also empowers him or her to also lift up other people and to actively speak out when an injustice is happening:

This is a beautiful book with a powerful message of inclusivity that did not seem too heavy handed to me. This will serve as a perfect gift for young readers everywhere.