REVIEW: IT’S NATIONAL KISSING DAY!

It may be National Kissing Day, but that doesn’t mean you HAVE to kiss someone. And a little lovebird named Rissy is just the bird to show us in:

​TITLE: RISSY NO KISSIES
AUTHOR: Katey Howes
ILLUSTRATOR: Jess Engle
PUBLISHER: Carolrhoda Books/2021
OPENING LINES: 
 
“Oh, the nestlings are just darling,”
cooed Miss Bluebird over tea.
“I can see that they like tickles,
they like treats, and they like me!
“Now I wonder if this little one
would kiss me on the cheek.”
“NO KISSIES!”
Rissy chirruped with a most empathetic squeak.

​This rhyming story about a lovebird who doesn’t like kisses is as darling as little Rissy herself! After friends and relatives attempt to give Rissy kissies, only to be rejected, they think she’s confused, rude or ill. As a result, poor Rissy begins to wonder if she’s a lovebird at all. Katey Howes’ text conveys important themes to the youngest of audiences. Readers will cheer for Rissy as she defends her right to receive affection when and in the ways in which she is comfortable (including holding wings and feather fives—so cute!). The book also includes an author’s note to children about consent and respecting others choices, as well as a note to caregivers about consent, bodily autonomy, boundaries, and sensory processing. Jess Engle’s cheerful watercolor illustrations in shades of bright yellows, oranges, reds, and greens are the perfect match for Katey’s gentle, rollicking rhyme. I love this adorable book about a lovebird who shows us there are all kinds of ways to show love!
 
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