Snuggle Puppy!: A Little Love Song – A Hug in Book Form
As a mom of two lively little ones, our evenings often turn into a gentle whirlwind of bedtime rituals. From pajama wrestling matches to sippy cup negotiations, it can be a challenge to carve out a peaceful moment amid the chaos. That’s why I was drawn to Snuggle Puppy!: A Little Love Song by Sandra Boynton. Its colorful cover and promise of cozy fun felt like the perfect way to wind down our busy days.
This delightful board book encapsulates the heartwarming bond between a parent and child through the lens of a fluffy, cuddly dog. It features a sweet, rhyming narrative that effortlessly flows, perfect for capturing my kids’ (and, let’s be honest, my) attention. Each line sings, “OOO, Snuggle Puppy of mine! Everything about you is especially fine.” From the first word, my children—ages 2 and 4—were completely captivated.
The illustrations are classic Boynton: vibrant, chunky, and filled with adorable characters. The die-cut cover invites little hands to explore, and I love how the designs feel friendly and approachable, which led my kids to mimic some of the doggy expressions with their own precious twinkles. As we turn the pages, they can’t help but giggle at the fluffy antics, especially when the story shifts to showcasing the dog’s cuteness, making it an interactive read-aloud experience.
I distinctly remember the first time we read it together. My youngest, with her love for animals, immediately pointed and squealed, "Puppy!” while my older one chimed in with his version of singing the rhythm. At one point, he declared that the Snuggle Puppy was just like our dog at home, which prompted a discussion that led to a funny comparison—our dog might be a bit more mischievous!
One of our favorite lines quickly became a household mantra: “I love what you are. I love what you do.” It’s a simple sentiment that not only celebrates affection but also inspires those sweet cuddle moments right before drifting off to sleep. And let me tell you, nothing is quite as heart-melting as watching them embrace each other after reading those lines, channeling all that love and warmth.
Snuggle Puppy! effortlessly balances fun and tenderness, making it a favorite for bedtime snuggles, especially for kids aged 1 to 3. It asks little ones to get involved—whether by asking them to mimic puppy sounds or even singing along, thanks to its musical quality. This book has truly become a cherished part of our evening routine.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt gift for a new parent or just a delightful way to foster affection between you and your toddler, Snuggle Puppy! is an absolute must-have. It’s not just a single read; this book has nestled its way into our hearts and will likely find a permanent spot on our bedside shelf. The encouragement of love and warmth contained within its pages is one I’m grateful to share and remember as our little ones continue to grow.
Cuddle up with Snuggle Puppy for heartwarming adventures! >>
