No Valentines for Katie

A parent might reach for this book when their child is anxious about being left out during a holiday, especially Valentine's Day at school. It's a gentle story for a child who is new to a class, shy, or worried they won't receive any cards or gifts from their peers. The story follows Katie, who is heartbroken when her valentine mailbox is empty while all her classmates are celebrating. It beautifully captures the feeling of loneliness in a crowd and the struggle to hide disappointment. This early reader normalizes feelings of sadness and exclusion in a way that is accessible for young children aged 5 to 7. The conflict is resolved with a simple, reassuring twist that shows Katie she was loved and included all along. It’s an excellent choice for providing comfort and opening a conversation about big feelings related to friendship and belonging, without being overly complex or scary.