Hold My Hand: Five Stories of Love and Family

by Charlotte Zolotow, Carol Thompson (Illustrator)

Charlotte Zolotow's collection of five stories and poems focuses on the subjects young children care most about: love and family. Here are the quintessential experiences of childhood: a baby uttering his first words; a young girl taking a walk with her Dad on a summer night; a big brother with a tag-along little brother, and more. With tender and exuberant watercolors by Carol Thompson, this is a collection to be shared and treasured.

Genres: Picture Books

64 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1972

About the author

Charlotte Zolotow was a distinguished American writer, editor, and publisher who made a lasting mark on children's literature. Over her career, she authored around 70 picture book texts and edited works by prominent writers including Paul Zindel, Robert Lipsyte, and Francesca Lia Block. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, she studied writing at the University of Wisconsin Madison and later joined Harper & Bros in New York, where she worked her way up from secretary to publisher. Her own books were published by over 20 houses, and she became known for her poetic and emotionally insightful texts. Zolotow’s most celebrated works include When the Wind Stops, William’s Doll, and River Winding. Her story "Enemies" was featured in The Big Book for Peace alongside other notable authors. She lived for many years in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. Her legacy endures not only through her own writing but also through the Charlotte Zolotow Award, established in 1998 to honor outstanding picture book texts. Her contributions helped shape modern children's literature with sensitivity, elegance, and enduring relevance.

Reviews

[Harper · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't know what age this book is aimed at, but it was in the picture book section at the library. It was way too old for Harper. Lots of text and not many graphics. We have yet to get through one story before she looses interest.

[Katie Fitzgerald · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is something creepy about this book, but I can't quite put my finger on it. I think it might be the way the little girls stare blankly off the page. The text is fine, it's definitely the illustrations that put me off.

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very sweet!

[Ellen Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Primary level stories on the theme of love and family. Very sweet and endearing for young students to read and talk about their families.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The five stories are poetic and lyrical. There is an overall softness to both verse and illustrations.

[Riki Kellogg · Rating 2 out of 5]

Multiple very short stories but they were disjointed and didn’t seem like they were finished. Not a fan of this one.

[Abigail Werner · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was only alright in my opinion. Some of the stories were cute, but a lot of the stories were about fussy and naughty children.