Valentine's Day is a moment to tell those we love how much they mean to us. Our family likes to get into the loving spirit by reading picture books. Our favorite stories have beautiful illustrations and themes about companionship and friendship.

Books say things that we sometimes can't put into words. They start conversations about devotion, gratitude, and acceptance.

Maybe it's just me, but I think an inscribed book is a truly romantic gift for a person of any age. Try one of our family favorites for the love of your life.

The Big Blue Spot by Peter Holwitz - One of the first books we bought for Lil, The Big Blue Spot tells a story of finding companionship in a simply illustrated, interactive book.

Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal - A standout new book of this winter, Plant a Kiss explores a fantastical idea: if you planted a kiss, what would happen? If it grows, should you share it? The 'kiss' is illustrated by a textured glitter ribbon that sensory-seeking kids will love to touch on the page.

Valentine Surprise by Corinne Demas - This story follows a little girl as she struggles to make the perfect card for her mother. It shows that DIY projects can be frustrating in the making but ultimately rewarding.

The Valentine Bears by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Jan Brett - A hibernating bear surprises his mate in this seasonal story. Other than the anthropomorphising, the illustrations and text are true to nature in midwinter.

Sugar Cookies: Sweet Little Lessons on Love by Amy Krouse Rosenthal - Awarding-winning Rosenthal deserves inclusion twice in this list for Sugar Cookies. Soft illustrations of people and pets by Jane & Brooke Dyer accompany definitions of loving words like 'considerate', 'admire', and 'forgive' in the context of making a batch of sugar cookies.

What love-ly books do you recommend?