How We Say I Love You by Susan Zannos: A Tender Exploration of Love
When I first stumbled upon How We Say I Love You by Susan Zannos, I was immediately intrigued by its title. It promised an exploration of love expressed through languages and cultures—a theme that resonates deeply in today’s globalized world. As I turned the pages, I found myself enveloped in a warm embrace of tenderness that, while perhaps not what I initially expected, captured the essence of love in a beautifully nuanced way.
At its heart, How We Say I Love You is a gentle reminder that love often transcends words. The story follows Hana, a young Asian-American girl, as she navigates her relationships with her family. Through her eyes, we see a rich tapestry of experiences that convey love through actions rather than just phrases. This was particularly meaningful to me, coming from a background with Scotch-Irish, German, and Swiss roots where affection wasn’t always vocalized. Zannos presents us with various vignettes—Hana’s parents cooking her favorite meals, her grandparents walking her to school, and those quiet moments filled with stories and support—that demonstrate how love can manifest in the simple, everyday acts of kindness.
The writing style is simple yet poetic, making it accessible for young readers while still conveying deep insights for adults. The pacing flows smoothly, allowing the reader to linger on each scene and reflect on the gestures of care and affection woven throughout. One standout moment that resonated with me came when Hana reflects, “Our love lives in all the things we do for one another.” This statement not only encapsulates the book’s message but also reminds us of the many ways we can express our love—whether by saving the best parts of a meal for someone or even just a reassuring touch.
The artwork enhances this emotional narrative, created with a blend of Photoshop and a graphic tablet that gives it a modern feel while remaining warm and inviting. Each double-page spread invites young readers to search for a hidden heart, making the reading experience interactive and adding an extra layer of engagement. The endpapers adorned with delicate blossoms perfectly complement the theme of love blooming in varied ways, echoing the narrative’s sentiments beautifully.
With its vibrant storytelling and poignant messages, How We Say I Love You is a treasure that will resonate with a diverse audience—families, educators, and anyone interested in exploring the depth of human connection. Zannos delivers a book that not only helps children feel seen and valued but also imparts a lasting lesson on the importance of actions over words.
This book has left me reflecting on my own expressions of love, encouraging me to cherish the small moments that often go unnoticed. Above all, it celebrates the idea that love, in any form, is meaningful—and that in a world often full of noise, the most powerful messages are those conveyed through thoughtful actions.
Whether you’re sharing it with a child, or simply revisiting your own memories of love expressed, How We Say I Love You is a testament to the tender connections we forge throughout our lives. It’s a 3.5 for me, a sweet experience that harmonizes culture, family, and the heartwarming ways we can communicate our deepest feelings.