Parents' Guide to

Guess How Much I Love You

Book Sam McBratney Family Life 1996
Guess How Much I Love You Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

By Ann Marie Sammataro , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 2+

Sentimental bunny tale tugs on the heartstrings.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 2+?

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age 2+

Based on 6 parent reviews

Katherine R.
Katherine R. Parent of 8, 10, 14, 18+, 18+ and 5-year-old
March 31, 2024
age 3+

Natasha Fowler
Natasha Fowler Adult
February 13, 2020
age 2+

Makes a competition between parent and child

‘I love you this much’. Says the child arms outstretched. The parent stretches their own arms, ‘I love you this much’. The child’s inner thoughts of how big the adult is and how small they are are not shared in the conversation. The one-upmanship of the parent doesn’t speak the language of love I know. I think it must speak very differently to different folks, as you can see from the way some really like and others don’t.
See all 6 parent reviews

What's the Story?

I love you as high as I can reach! A young rabbit and his father answer the timeless question of "how do I love thee?" Handstands and hops abound as father and son search for the very best way to express their love. A sweet, simple story and smile-provoking watercolors leave readers feeling warm and cozy.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (6 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

The combination of Sam McBratney's moving text and Anita Jeram's winsome illustrations is enchanting. This sentimental tale gives a good tug on the heartstrings without descending into sentimentality. Gentle humor and a pervading sense of love dominate the pages.

McBratney communicates his message in simple, kid-friendly terms. Big Nutbrown Hare's expansive responses to his son's declarations depict the unconditional love parents have for their children. Young readers will respond to the story's humor as Little Nutbrown Hare's pronouncements become more extravagant and exuberant. And Jeram's detailed portrayals of father and son rabbits are filled with tenderness, right down to the tiniest details: the angle of the ears, the simple gestures, and facial expressions. Her use of soft shaded watercolors keeps the book's mood mellow and calm -- ideal for bedtime reading.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about when they need hugs and reassurance. Do you like hugs before daycare and before bed?

  • How do hugs make you feel better?

Book Details

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