ALA Booklist (Sat Dec 01 00:00:00 CST 2012)

Don't let the pink jacket and fancy script fool you. Farmer uses soundly researched facts far beyond the hearts and flowers normally associated with romantic love to explore the complex history of Valentine's Day. She begins with the pagan and eventual Christian origins of the holiday, pointing out that no less than three different Roman bishops and priests named Valentine were martyred for their acts of love and devotion. Quotes from famous poets and writers are found in the margins, including many from Chaucer, who was reportedly the first to connect the holiday to romance. Two crafts, interspersed within the body of the book, help realize the urge to use this information for practical use; namely, a construction-paper valentine folded up like a mouse and a tissue-paper flower. Collage art that mimics old-fashioned Valentine's illustrations is irresistible and references traditional symbols of Cupid, doves, and chocolate. The high-interest nature of many of the facts presented here may inspire students to explore the traditions and folklore associated with other common holidays.

Horn Book

Sources or footnotes would have helped this somewhat disorganized account of the history of Valentine's Day and the ways it's celebrated worldwide. Ideas considered to be legend are stated as facts, though the tidbit-style information is engaging. The attractive design, romantic mixed-media illustrations, famous quotes on love, and craft ideas enhance the presentation.

Kirkus Reviews

Farmer (O Christmas Tree, 2010) offers a compelling survey of the history, legends, traditions and symbols of Valentine's Day for the primary school set. This nonfiction title is best read cover to cover instead of flipped through to locate specific information, since there is no table of contents or index to aid in locating specific facts. Readers first learn that the holiday's origins can be traced to ancient Rome, but they will be intrigued to learn how religious figures, a poet, an imprisoned nobleman and an entrepreneurial woman in Massachusetts called the "Mother of the American Valentine" have all helped shape this special day in February. The information is presented succinctly, on topical pages consisting of a few paragraphs of text, and illustrators Halsey and Addy add playful touches with their mixed-media collage utilizing photographs, vintage clip art, hand-drawn images and acrylic paints. After the history has been covered, readers learn more about the significance of the holiday symbols and traditions involving Cupid, doves, hearts, chocolates and flowers. A couple of quick craft projects, a page of Valentine's Day jokes and a smattering of quotes about love interspersed throughout the book all add appeal for young students. A solid nonfiction offering; libraries should buy multiples. (Nonfiction. 6-9)

School Library Journal (Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 CST 2013)

Gr 3-6 This engaging presentation is chock-full of fascinating information. Readers will learn the origin of the holiday's name and why it is celebrated on February 14; traditions dating back to ancient Rome; how a Massachusetts woman created the Valentine card industry; and why cupids, flowers, and chocolates are popular symbols around the world. Parts of the book are presented in a scrapbook format, and factual matter is interspersed with mixed-media collage, including vintage photographs and clip art, romantic quotes written on hearts, and hand-drawn images. A couple of craft projects and Valentine jokes add to the fun. This book could be useful for classroom research or just read for enjoyment. A lovely addition to holiday bookshelves. Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT