A girl, Amy, moves in next door to Austin. He tries to impress her, when she isn't impressed he insults her. I thought it contained unrealistic behavior for children. ( )

"Yuck, a Love Story" is about a little boy, Austin, trying to befriend a girl Amy who moved next door to him, through insults as well as compliments and his imagination. I liked this book for three reasons. First, the illustrations of this story were striking and very fascinating to me. The illustrations helped enhance the story and provided an enjoyable visualization of the words on the page. One day in the story, Austin dressed as a superhero and pretended to use x-ray vision to see through Amy's front door. The illustration on this page captured the whole concept on Austin trying to befriend Amy by impressing her with his superpower. The illustrations in this book really help the words come to life. The second reason I liked this book was because the plot was very interesting. The story flowed, and was logical despite the fact that it was a fantasy. The vocabulary in the story helped it to flow. For example, Austin told Amy, "The Tyrannosaurus Rex has fifty teeth. It is the most feared predator on earth." I think the words he used helped the story line because he was trying to impress Amy with his knowledge. The third reason I liked this book was because of the title. I find it interesting that young children often say "Yuck" when it relates to the opposite sex. This theme of this book helps readers reflect on what it means to be human, but also what is impossible. ( )

Plot: When red-headed, freckled Amy moves in next door, Austin attempts to win her over by a combination of insults, compliments, gifts (typical of a small boy) and ultimately an endearing imagination. Austin’s confusion over the situation and the mix of reality vs. imagination are strong elements in the story.

My reaction: The illustrations are enchantingly adorable and the words are equally sweet—perfectly portraying the confusion of a first “love”. I think this is one of the most precious books I have ever read! A great story to read for Valentine’s Day!

Recommended Age Level: 3 – 8 years old

Award Information: Winner of the 2000 Governor General's Award for Children''s Literature
Finalist for the CBA Illustrator of the Year Award ( )

A charming and funny story of a young boy who is fascinated with the new girl next door. Their initial conflict turns to friendship, and he gives her an out-of-this-world birthday gift. Wonderful illustrations by Marie-Louise Gay. A Governor General's Award Winner. ( )