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If There Never Was a You
If there never was a you, how empty life would be! Who would make me smile and laugh and keep me company?
Filled with heartwarming messages of love, belonging, and togetherness, If There Never Was a You gently reassures children that the place they hold in their parents' hearts can never be filled with anything else.
Filled with heartwarming messages of love, belonging, and togetherness, If There Never Was a You gently reassures children that the place they hold in their parents' hearts can never be filled with anything else.
- GenresChildrensPicture Books
20 pages, Board Book
Published March 1, 2019
14 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Rowe
1 book2 followersAmanda Rowe is a freelance writer, an academic administrator, an amateur chef, a travel enthusiast, a blogger, and a book hoarder. If There Never Was a You is her first children’s book; visit her at www.amandarowewrites.com and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amandarowew....
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 16, 2019
I recently read another book in the same vein called
We Sang You Home
. I didn't like that one much, for one main reason: it put way too much pressure on the kid. It was all about the parent, and what the child's presence did for them. If There Never Was a You, in contrast, focuses more on the child and on the parent-child relationship.
The illustrations kind of remind me of some I've seen from the 1960s. But these look fresher, with better facial expressions and lots of fun details to notice.
This is a rhyming picture book, and with the exception of one stanza, the meter is great (I don't know what happened in that one line). The text talks about all the things that the mother and child do together, things that wouldn't be possible if the child didn't exist. Who would dream the child's dreams, for example? The whole book is steeped in a sweet sentiment, and doesn't have that feeling of high expectations that We Sang You Home is plagued by.
Parents are likely to get just as much out of this one as kids. It's a gentle reminder for parents of all the wonderful things children can bring... as well as an affirmation for children that they are loved and worthy.
Quotable moment:
The illustrations kind of remind me of some I've seen from the 1960s. But these look fresher, with better facial expressions and lots of fun details to notice.
This is a rhyming picture book, and with the exception of one stanza, the meter is great (I don't know what happened in that one line). The text talks about all the things that the mother and child do together, things that wouldn't be possible if the child didn't exist. Who would dream the child's dreams, for example? The whole book is steeped in a sweet sentiment, and doesn't have that feeling of high expectations that We Sang You Home is plagued by.
Parents are likely to get just as much out of this one as kids. It's a gentle reminder for parents of all the wonderful things children can bring... as well as an affirmation for children that they are loved and worthy.
Quotable moment:
September 7, 2020
What a darling board book! I'm always looking for cute books for my grandchildren and this one is a winner, with adorable illustrations.
April 15, 2025
Yara's Favorite
Age: Almost 3
Age: Almost 3
January 31, 2019
A board book with a sweet heart and charming illustrations about the love between a parent and a child.
December 12, 2018
Beautiful sentiment and images!!! Love the book!!! Preordered a copy, and will definitely order for my friends with kids :)
December 15, 2018
Absolutely Amazing and Heartfelt. Found the new book for the kids nightly bedtime routine! Can't wait to see what other stories she produces for us to bring into our home and lives.
December 16, 2018
A great story for parents to share with their children! A real joy. Beautifully illustrated.
December 16, 2018
An enchanting story about the love between a child and parent. This is a book to cherish always.
March 15, 2019
“If there never was a you, life wouldn’t be the same.
I love you more than words can say … and I’m so glad you came,” Amanda Rowe ends her children’s book, If There Never Was a You.
~ What ~
This twenty-page board book with a padded cover and rounded edges targets five- to six-year-old children and readers who like a charming story about the love an adult has for her child. With no scary scenes, it would be best read to beginner readers based on some complicated words. Expressive, colorful illustrations cover the pages with a black font against white or pale colored backgrounds that are incorporated into the designs.
In this short rhyming tale, a female rabbit expounds how her little bunny makes her life special as he makes her smile, laugh, and stay busy. Whether she helps him dress, snuggle in bed, listen to jokes, or watch him grow and learn, she enjoys the adventures, care, and time they spend together, more than she can explain.
~ Why ~
Not written as a fictional story, this adorable book conveys how a parent or grandparent’s life would be empty if their child or grandchild were not around. I love the fanciful illustrations of the adult rabbit wearing wire-rimmed glasses and the detailed designs, complete with silly outfits, dangling socks, flying carrots, and spunky animals.
~ Why Not ~
Some may not like the busyness of the illustrations. The book contains a couple of multi-syllable words that may frustrate beginner readers, but it also is a way to learn new words. The age group is for five- and six-year-olds, but younger and older children may like it too.
~ Wish ~
I hope more books by this author and illustrator can be completed as they would be enjoyed by young and old.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a lovely book that shows the unique love between an adult and child, this makes a wonderful addition. I know I will love reading it to my young grandchildren when they visit.
Thanks to Familius and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
I love you more than words can say … and I’m so glad you came,” Amanda Rowe ends her children’s book, If There Never Was a You.
~ What ~
This twenty-page board book with a padded cover and rounded edges targets five- to six-year-old children and readers who like a charming story about the love an adult has for her child. With no scary scenes, it would be best read to beginner readers based on some complicated words. Expressive, colorful illustrations cover the pages with a black font against white or pale colored backgrounds that are incorporated into the designs.
In this short rhyming tale, a female rabbit expounds how her little bunny makes her life special as he makes her smile, laugh, and stay busy. Whether she helps him dress, snuggle in bed, listen to jokes, or watch him grow and learn, she enjoys the adventures, care, and time they spend together, more than she can explain.
~ Why ~
Not written as a fictional story, this adorable book conveys how a parent or grandparent’s life would be empty if their child or grandchild were not around. I love the fanciful illustrations of the adult rabbit wearing wire-rimmed glasses and the detailed designs, complete with silly outfits, dangling socks, flying carrots, and spunky animals.
~ Why Not ~
Some may not like the busyness of the illustrations. The book contains a couple of multi-syllable words that may frustrate beginner readers, but it also is a way to learn new words. The age group is for five- and six-year-olds, but younger and older children may like it too.
~ Wish ~
I hope more books by this author and illustrator can be completed as they would be enjoyed by young and old.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a lovely book that shows the unique love between an adult and child, this makes a wonderful addition. I know I will love reading it to my young grandchildren when they visit.
Thanks to Familius and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
November 5, 2020
Love, warmth and security radiate from this book, making it a perfect read to cuddle up with and read.
This is a lovely board book, which has only one purpose—to tell a child how important they are and how wonderful it is to have them around. It's told from a mother's point of view and goes through different examples of how the child makes this mother's life better. The situations will be mostly familiar to young listeners. I find it especially nice that this book shows how a child's presence...no matter what they do...is simply a joy for the parent. It's up-lifting and makes it clear that the child is loved for just being there and living.
The illustrations are bright and full of little details. The pair used is a mother rabbit and her child rabbit. Both are cheerful and created with warmth and love. There's quite a few things for young listeners to gaze at in these pictures. Some things are even a little funny (in a cute way), which is sure to make them smile. It definitely gives opportunities to discover something new with every read. And there is sure to be more than one read through on this one.
The text is a little large for the youngest, but then, this isn't a book to help kids learn to read. Rather, it's a read aloud, and one especially great for moms and their children. It's guaranteed to end with a big hug and have both with all sorts of warm fuzzy feelings.
This is a lovely board book, which has only one purpose—to tell a child how important they are and how wonderful it is to have them around. It's told from a mother's point of view and goes through different examples of how the child makes this mother's life better. The situations will be mostly familiar to young listeners. I find it especially nice that this book shows how a child's presence...no matter what they do...is simply a joy for the parent. It's up-lifting and makes it clear that the child is loved for just being there and living.
The illustrations are bright and full of little details. The pair used is a mother rabbit and her child rabbit. Both are cheerful and created with warmth and love. There's quite a few things for young listeners to gaze at in these pictures. Some things are even a little funny (in a cute way), which is sure to make them smile. It definitely gives opportunities to discover something new with every read. And there is sure to be more than one read through on this one.
The text is a little large for the youngest, but then, this isn't a book to help kids learn to read. Rather, it's a read aloud, and one especially great for moms and their children. It's guaranteed to end with a big hug and have both with all sorts of warm fuzzy feelings.
July 25, 2023
"If There Was Never A You" by Amanda Rowe and Olga Skomorokhova is a heartwarming 20-page children's book that celebrates the unique bond between parents and their children. The story's rhythmic verses and enchanting illustrations draw young readers into a world of love and togetherness. The book gently reassures children that their place in their parents' hearts is irreplaceable, bringing comfort and a sense of belonging.
The narrative begins with a captivating question, emphasizing the profound impact a child has on their parent's life. The simple yet powerful message unfolds through delightful rhymes, making it accessible to even the youngest of readers. Olga Skomorokhova's vivid illustrations add to the book's charm, capturing the emotions and expressions of the characters with warmth and care.
Throughout the book, the theme of unconditional love shines through, reminding children of their special role in their family's life. "If There Was Never A You" serves as an excellent conversation starter, allowing parents and children to discuss emotions and the value of family bonds. This heartwarming tale leaves a lasting impression, spreading love and reassurance among young readers and their caregivers. It's a must-have addition to any child's library, reminding them of the love that surrounds them every day.
The narrative begins with a captivating question, emphasizing the profound impact a child has on their parent's life. The simple yet powerful message unfolds through delightful rhymes, making it accessible to even the youngest of readers. Olga Skomorokhova's vivid illustrations add to the book's charm, capturing the emotions and expressions of the characters with warmth and care.
Throughout the book, the theme of unconditional love shines through, reminding children of their special role in their family's life. "If There Was Never A You" serves as an excellent conversation starter, allowing parents and children to discuss emotions and the value of family bonds. This heartwarming tale leaves a lasting impression, spreading love and reassurance among young readers and their caregivers. It's a must-have addition to any child's library, reminding them of the love that surrounds them every day.
May 16, 2023
If There Never Was a You by Amanda Rowe
If There Never Was a You is a beautifully illustrated book and a cute way to tell children how much they mean to you and how empty life would be without them.
This book shows how Mama Bunny’s life changed with the arrival of the Little Bunny. Mama Bunny tells little Bunny in so many different ways how her life would be if there never was a you. Who would make her smile, laugh and share adventures with her?
No one can describe in words the feeling that a mother has towards her children. But this heartwarming book and its colorful and playful art perfectly exhibit the beautiful bond between them and show children that the place they hold in their parents' hearts can never be filled with anything else.
This adorable picture book with rhyming text is surely an emotional experience for parents to read with their children.
Perfect for 1+
Grab your copy from Amazon.
If There Never Was a You is a beautifully illustrated book and a cute way to tell children how much they mean to you and how empty life would be without them.
This book shows how Mama Bunny’s life changed with the arrival of the Little Bunny. Mama Bunny tells little Bunny in so many different ways how her life would be if there never was a you. Who would make her smile, laugh and share adventures with her?
No one can describe in words the feeling that a mother has towards her children. But this heartwarming book and its colorful and playful art perfectly exhibit the beautiful bond between them and show children that the place they hold in their parents' hearts can never be filled with anything else.
This adorable picture book with rhyming text is surely an emotional experience for parents to read with their children.
Perfect for 1+
Grab your copy from Amazon.
October 16, 2019
Reminiscent of Rainstorm Publishing’s Tender Moments Collection, If There Never Was A You is an adorable rhyming story of a mother bunny telling her son how much she loves having him in her life.
Youngsters will reach for this memorable book again and again.
If There Never Was A You is a lovely tribute to a mother’s unconditional love for her children. The rhyme and accompanying illustrations are colorful, glossy and vibrant; a delightful treat for the ears and eyes.
Rowe has written a timeless story that is simple and bursting with joyful love. Skomorokhova’s bubbly, doe-eyed characters will endear parents, teachers and children.
I’m sure that after several readings, youngsters will enjoy viewing the illustrations to discuss the colors, shapes, patterns and lively actions of the characters.
Youngsters will reach for this memorable book again and again.
If There Never Was A You is a lovely tribute to a mother’s unconditional love for her children. The rhyme and accompanying illustrations are colorful, glossy and vibrant; a delightful treat for the ears and eyes.
Rowe has written a timeless story that is simple and bursting with joyful love. Skomorokhova’s bubbly, doe-eyed characters will endear parents, teachers and children.
I’m sure that after several readings, youngsters will enjoy viewing the illustrations to discuss the colors, shapes, patterns and lively actions of the characters.
December 19, 2019
Delightful little board book that shares the love between parent and child.
A must for any family with kids of all ages.
Also a great snuggle book with beautiful illustrations that work well with the intend of the story and add to the charm.
A must for any family with kids of all ages.
Also a great snuggle book with beautiful illustrations that work well with the intend of the story and add to the charm.
February 2, 2025
What a beautiful book from beginning to end. The delightful illustrations are full of charm, and the heartwarming story is written in clever rhyme. If There Never Was a You would make a lovely baby shower gift or simply a sweet bedtime read aloud.
October 16, 2019
An adorable book showing a mommy bunny having adventures with a baby bunny. Short and sweet; perfect for little little kids.
November 17, 2020
Cute, delightful and a super sweet story about the beautiful relationship of a mother and child. It’s a book that celebrates love and belongingness.
February 7, 2022
This is a heartwarming picture book with expressive illustrations full of bright colors. This book would make excellent gifts for any child or parents to be.
April 8, 2023
This was such a cute book! My son loved it so much! Thank you!
October 27, 2023
Coco did NOT want to read this book! But then when she did, she said, we can't Gove this book back, nor to anyone else, because it's about me and no one else!
February 28, 2024
This book has gorgeous illustrations and such a sweet message.
February 28, 2026
This book is precious! The rhythmic story about unconditional love between a parent and child is heartwarming, and the vivid, colorful illustrations are absolutely darling!
January 31, 2020
This is a beautifully written and illustrated book with such an important message. Although it is a short, children's board book, even adult readers will be deeply touched. So glad I discovered this title through The Book Fairies, I will be buying this for the little ones in my life for years to come!
January 1, 2022
Sweet, warm, engaging message and lovely illustrations. Children will feel special when they read this on their own or with a parent or other caring adult or sibling. What would life be like without you? This book kindly and visually reminds its readers.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews