Johnny Valentine

In this short but engaging book, the imperturbable Lou answers his friend’s questions about his two dads, who both are blue. Since the story focuses on his dads’ “blue-ness” rather than their “two-ness”, it presents the idea of different families without focusing on the issue of sexual orientation. Lou’s answers about his dads are confident and matter-of-fact, and this book is a great tool for building self-esteem for kids in two-dad families. Lou’s answers also serve to show more further showcase the many things that all dads can do, and the book ends with yet another surprise about dads from Lou’s friend Jean. Highly recommended. Review by Book Dads show less

This is a children's picture book that mirrors the style of Dr. Seuss' One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish. The only difference is that the story's topic is about a boy with two blue dads. He is different but he chooses to embrace his family even though they do not fit the norm of all his friends families. Not only is the books text use creatively but so are the illustrations.This is a creative book because it is a rhyming book which relates to the younger readers. I really liked this show more book and I really like that books are able to use topics that relate to children in multicultural families. show less

I was first introduced to this book at the Preschool in which I work, which is very progressive.
The message is a wonderful one, that regardless of ones color or sexual orientation, we are all just human.
Not a book for those that take things too literally; search for the deeper meaning.
It's a fun read and kids certainly enjoy it.

The only interesting feature of this book is the fact that it addresses the issue of having two dads. Other than that, it features a couple big issues. The first: it's ripping off Dr. Seuss. The second: a book advocating acceptance only stresses the fact that there are blue dads - glossing over the idea of having two dads. Perhaps the point is to make that issue "normal", but it just as easily could be glossing over the issue to subdue controversey. Either way, the book is not strong enough show more in plot or illustrations to overcome the thin premise of the book. show less