Put your love into words with a Valentine's book

The holiday of Lupercalia was first celebrated in the middle of February, because the gods had kept the wolves away from Roman doors. The people feasted and danced and played games. When the young men wanted to dance, they drew a young lady's name out of a bowl. The girls would often become their sweethearts, too.

When Christianity came to Rome, the name of the feast was changed to honor St. Valentine, and the feast day spread throughout Europe. Young men still chose their partners by drawing girls' names out of a bowl. The English believed the birds chose their mates in February. Letters and notes were exchanged and were called valentines.

Today the tradition continues on Feb. 14, a day to give sweets, fancy cards, tokens of affection and valentine books. Romance books, books of poetry, books that contain love stories are often part of the celebration. Here's a short list of good ones to check out:

Best Valentine in the World; Marjorie Weinman Sharmat

Story of Fox's endeavor to give Florette Fox a better valentine than she gives him.

It's Valentine's Day; Jack Prelutsky

A collection of crazy Valentine's poems for children.

Valentine Cats; Jean Marzollo

Even though these cats have never been to school, they act just like a bunch of children at a school Valentine's party.

Story of Valentine's Day; Clyde Robert Bulla

A comprehensive history of the celebration complete with craft and treat ideas.

Valentine Bears; Eve Bunting and Jan Brett

Mrs. Bear's attempts to give Mr. Bear a special Valentine's Day present go awry when she can't find anything under the snow, but she's the one who is surprised.

213 Valentines; Barbara Cohen

Wade is having trouble adjusting to his new "gifted and talented" school, so he decides to send himself 213 valentines — all from celebrities.

Today is Valentines's Day; P.K. Hallinan

The enchantment of childhood is explored when celebrating the many loves in their lives.

Counting Kisses; Karen Katz

Count how many kisses a tired baby needs before he falls gently asleep.

Valentine Princess (Princess Diaries); Meg Cabbott

When you are Princess Mia, nothing happens the way it is supposed to.

Biggest Valentine Ever; Steven Kroll

Clayton and Desmond try to make their teacher the biggest valentine but end up arguing and tearing the valentine heart in two. (Comes with valentine stickers.)

Mary Engelbreit's Wrap It Up : Gifts to Make, Wrap and Give; Mary Engelbreit

Adorable artwork shows presents to give for every season, including a "Have a Heart" valentine tin.

All New Crafts for Valentine's Day - Kathy Ross

Valentine's Day calls for the do-it-yourself approach, so get out the scissors, glue and fancy paper. This book is chock-full of crafty ideas.

— Vicky M. Turner, American Fork city children's librarian