Eyes That Kiss in the Corners

One of my favorite spreads in Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho and Illustrated by Dung Ho. Top photo shows my niece and nephew, Piggie and Monkey, with their copy of the book. Plus Lego, of course.

As part of my Lola’s New Year’s Day Raffle, I sent copies of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners to several of my nieces and nephews, who happen to be mixtures of white/European, Filipino, Chinese, Indonesian blood.

What I love most about this debut picture book by Joanna Ho and illustrated by Dung Ho is the title.

That’s right. Even though Eyes That Kiss in the Corners is a fabulous story, with a lyrical style of prose that emphasizes the importance of family and the pride we carry on by simply being who we are, and even though the illustrations are catchy, vibrant, full of action and detail, my favorite part is still the title.

Joanna Ho brilliantly interweaves the lovely refrain of “eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea” with every day connections between the main character and her mom, sister, and grandma, and also within hints of their heritage that are great talking points for young readers. Every spread is rainbow-infused with moments of connectedness, imagination, and both traditional and modern clothing.

And yet, likely because it is part of the repeating refrain, the title of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners is brilliant because it signifies so much in such few words. This book has been lauded far and wide in the month since it’s publication and with good reason. A lovely picture book that emphasizes family and heritage and pride. With the loveliest description for almond-shaped eyes that I’ve ever heard. <3

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Do you have a favorite book title? Let me know what it is in the comments.