If I Could .

PreS-Gr 2–The infinite love between caregivers and children is celebrated and explored in this generous picture book. Comforting, repetitive text describes all of the amazing things that grown-ups wish for their young ones, such as, “I’d give you the outdoors./ I’d give you how it feels to simply walk by your side,” as well as the moon and the sky, epic legends, and constant happiness. The unseen narrator also expresses a desire to share the “smallest piece,” of their loneliness and “every tear” they’ve ever cried. Concluding spreads express that the narrator wishes they could give their child everything, but that they will try new things and learn and grow, as the world already belongs to them. Lyrical text makes for a sweet read-aloud, although aspects of the sentimental text might appeal more to adult readers. Barton’s soft, gentle digital illustrations depict both relatable, everyday activities and routines of diverse families interwoven with imaginative, whimsical imagery. Read alongside Emma Dodd’s “Love You” books and Andrea Beaty’s I Love You Like Yellow for more loving stories of caregivers and their charges.