Kiss for You

Guido Van Genechten (1957, Belgium) studied drawing and painting, graphics and photography. Afterward, he worked for many years in the graphic industry. Now Guido works as a fulltime illustrator of children’s books. In 1998 he won the international Illustrator’s Award City of Hasselt with his picture book Ricky. This prize was the beginning of his international career as a children’s book illustrator. Since that moment, Guido Van Genechten has created many best-selling stories and received several awards. In 2007 he was the winner of the Reader’s Digest Award for Best Children’s Book Illustrator. And in the past ten years, his books were published in 30 countries around the world.

"An ode to love and kisses for babies and toddlers, imported from Belgium and the Netherlands.Big-headed, diaper-clad fuzzy animals populate this board book. Each has characteristics that mirror the brief text. “A kiss for you on the top of your head…” is paired with an orange crawling cat-baby with three distinct stripes on its head. The “baby” on the next spread with a pig’s ears, hooves, and substantial snout is ready to be kissed “on the tip of your nose.” Subsequent pages follow the same pattern, with a rhino’s rosy cheeks, elephant’s ears, giraffe’s neck, mouse’s fingers and toes, lamb’s belly, and puppy’s sleepy eyes all awaiting kisses while engaged in typical baby behaviors. Their facial expressions are all anticipation. Finally a big-eyed, bald White baby smiles at the words, “I kiss you, I kiss you, I kiss you…because I love you so much.” Sharing this with a tot will almost inevitably end in giggles, cuddles, and kisses. (The book does not take into account those babies who may not welcome such physical intimacy.) The large trim size and uncluttered layout help even the youngest babies focus on what is inevitably coming—more kisses. The pale palette of peach, beige, light brown, and white with contrasting baby-blanket patterns matches the gently playful tone.A sweet reminder to cuddle and kiss throughout a baby’s day." - Kirkus Reviews"This is a short yet sweet book for babies or very small children. It is a mother or father that is giving kisses to the babies. It shows care and love. The illustrations are also very cute with baby animals." - Johnston County Schools"A Kiss for You by Guido Van Genechten is a sweet book for young children. It features adorable illustrations of baby animals with simple language perfect for reading to a small child or baby. The book highlights different body parts through the loving text, which provides nice language exposure. I would recommend adding this book to your baby’s library!" - Plymouth Public Schools"A great board book for little ones with adorable illustrations. I definitely plan on purchasing this for my library." - Lorain Public Library System