Xs and Os for Gabby Ann by Petrell Marie Ozbay (Children's, Picture book, 10E/10E)

 May 2015, Adorn Inc, Ebook, Review copy from NetGalley,

Content: super cute scenes

Summary from NetGalley

Gabby Ann loves kisses and hugs. They are the BEST part about bedtime. There is nothing like an extra kiss and a hug – an X and an O – from her mommy before the lights go out. But, what about Gabby’s daddy? He works on the other side of the world, at least a million miles away. So, how are his kisses and hugs going to reach her? When will they get there? What if they get lost along the way?

Join the Xs and Os on a lively, global adventure as they find their way to Gabby Ann, helping children to realize the boundless and powerful spirit of a parent’s love.

Nayu's thoughts

Xs and Os translated means kisses and hugs, something children often love from their parents and loved ones before bed. This story has a huge feel good factor despite Gabby Ann's father not being with her, hence the top grade. You can see from the cover the illustrations are super cute and what I call a bit girly. I needed tissues on most of the pages because the strenght of Gabby Ann's emotions at missing her father tugged my heart, making me think of all those whose parents are away for a while, and led to thinking of those who have lost a parent too (which led to a few more tears). She ends up with an inventive way of giving her dad her love at night which yes, had me crying a bit more. I'm looking forward to Petrell's future books. 

Suggested read

Another title which addresses the issue of parents working away from their child is Mummy's Home by Christopher MacGregor and Emma Yarlett (Children's, Picture book, 10E/10E)