I Love the Rain

Margaret Park Bridges' 'I Love the Rain' is a delightful picture book that gently shifts a child's perspective on what might typically be seen as a dreary day. The narrative follows two unnamed little girls who, instead of complaining, actively engage with the sensory experience of rain. They observe the world transformed: streets become shiny, puddles invite splashing, and the sound of rain on a bus roof becomes a rhythmic dance. The book handles the topic of changing one's outlook in a very direct and positive way, without being preachy. It's a secular celebration of nature's simple beauty and the power of a positive mindset. The emotional arc is one of gentle upliftment, starting with the common experience of rain and evolving into a joyful appreciation. This book is specifically for children who might feel bored or disappointed by bad weather, or for any child to encourage observation skills and gratitude for their surroundings. A parent would reach for this book on a rainy day when their child is expressing frustration, or simply as a comforting bedtime story. No specific preparation is needed for parents, as the content is universally gentle and positive. Younger children (4-6) will be drawn to the vivid descriptions and the idea of finding fun in puddles, while slightly older children (7-8) might grasp the underlying message about perspective and appreciation more deeply. What makes this book stand out is its active, sensory engagement with the rain, moving beyond passive observation to an enthusiastic embrace of the weather, encouraging children to actively seek out the good in every situation.