I Loved You First

by Jenna Bush Hager, Barbara Pierce Bush, Ramona Kaulitzki (illustrator)

Celebrate the bond between parent and child in this lyrical story by former first daughters and #1 New York Times bestselling authors of Sisters First Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush.

There is nothing more important than the time we spend together, learning to see the world through each other’s eyes. From counting constellations to imagining shapes in fluffy clouds to hiking great canyons or jumping into the ocean, the special moments between a mother or father and their child are some of the most memorable and precious in our lives.

Inspired by the majesty of nature all around us, I Loved You First is an expansive and gently whimsical celebration of parental love and a companion to Jenna and Barbara’s New York Times bestselling children's books Sisters First and Love Comes First.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

40 pages, Hardcover

Published March 25, 2025

About the author

Jenna Bush Hager is a co-host of NBC’s TODAY Show, the founder of the Read With Jenna book club, and a lifelong book lover. She recently launched her own publishing imprint, Thousand Voices Books, to help bring new stories and new voices to readers.

Reviews

[Margaret Anne]

A beautiful little story with a wonderful message and gorgeous illustrations. I received this book and met the authors at their launch event, which was amazing.

[TheRetiredSchoolLibrarian |Mrs. Ferraris]

Summary: This book is a heartfelt expression of the unconditional love a parent feels for their child as soon as they hold their child and spend time with them as they grow up.

Comments: The illustrations were created using hand-painted textures and digital watercolor, and pencil brushes in Photoshop.

Rating: 3.5/5 📗📗📗1/2

[Pam]

The third in the Bush sisters series.
A tender story affirming that parents will always love their children and encourage them to grow, learn and explore. Readers see illustrations of a variety of parents with their children; they will identify with at least some of the scenarios.

[Emily]

This is rinse and repeat of every single I Love You No Matter What story. And yes this one has very pretty artwork and all. I just feel like there are other books out there that have been artwork and that tell this story better.

[Sarah]

Would recommend. Not a storytime book, but a sweet book to give new parents or for a birthday from parents.

[Diana]

My 7 year old said the pictures are too perfect. 😂

[Calla]

Calla didn't really appreciate this book, but I did! So sweet!

[Robin Berman]

Describes the love of a mother for her child. 💕