You Are Always Loved: A Story of Hope by Harry Cunnane, Holly Clifton-Brown, Madeleine Dean
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on February 16, 2021
ISBN: 0593309243
Pages: 32
Genres: Animals
Format: Picture Book Fiction
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“You are always loved” is written by Madeleine Dean and Harry Cunnane and illustrated by Holly Clifton-Brown. This book features a small rabbit who gets caught out in a storm. He is scared, but bands together with friends and finds out that even when you are scared or feel alone, you are still loved. This story can be read with a religious theme, as if a higher power is always loving you, but in the back of the book, the authors explain that the book was inspired by Harry’s addiction and recovery and what his mother and he wished that he and his family knew during his addiction.

Clifton-Brown’s illustrations are bright and cute, and the animals evoke a sense of warmth. The detail on the animals (down to their fur and feathers) contrasts nicely with the more basic watercolor-type art for the environment. The illustrations emphasize what is stated in the text: You are always loved and there is hope.

The book is aimed at children aged 4-8. While very nice, it is not a must-buy since there are many animal-based picture books with themes of love and acceptance. Could be purchased for collections that want a book for young kids about addiction.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook.