I’ve Loved You Since Forever by Hoda Kotb is a beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates the timeless love between a parent and child. Inspired by Kotb’s own heartwarming adoption journey of her daughter, Haley Joy, this book serves as a poetic testament to the deep connections that form within families.

Overview

The narrative begins with the lyrical lines, “In the universe, there was you and there was me, waiting for the day our stars would meet.” This opening sets the tone for a tender exploration of the love that exists even before a child is born or adopted. The book captures the excitement and joy surrounding the arrival of a new family member, emphasizing that love transcends time and circumstance.

Key Themes

1. Celebration of Adoption: The story highlights the beauty of adoption, portraying it as a profound and loving way to create a family. It reassures adopted children of their special place in their parents’ hearts.
2. Universal Love: The text is crafted to resonate with all types of families, making it relatable for parents and children regardless of their backgrounds. The gender-neutral language allows for diverse interpretations of parental love.
3. Cosmic Connection: The recurring cosmic motifs throughout the illustrations symbolize the eternal bond between parent and child, suggesting that their connection was destined from the beginning.
4. Emotional Resonance: The book evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, making it an ideal bedtime story that parents can share with their children repeatedly.

Illustrations

Suzie Mason’s stunning artwork complements Kotb’s text beautifully. The illustrations feature various parent-child animal pairings set against dreamy backgrounds, enhancing the book’s soothing quality and visual appeal.

Reception

The book has been well-received, praised for its heartfelt message and beautiful illustrations. While some critiques mention that it may lean towards overly sentimental language, many readers appreciate its ability to convey deep emotions associated with parental love.

Conclusion

I’ve Loved You Since Forever is an excellent choice for families looking to celebrate their bonds through adoption or simply express love in its many forms. It makes a lovely gift for baby showers, Mother’s Day, or any occasion celebrating family. This picture book not only provides comfort and reassurance to children but also serves as a reminder to parents about the enduring nature of their love.