Valentines are the worst!

Alex Willan

Book - 2026

In this illustrated picture book for young readers, Gilbert the goblin is determined to avoid Valentine's Day festivities, preferring tacos over cards and candy. When he encounters a group of mischievous cupids intent on spreading love, Gilbert must navigate a series of humorous situations to escape their attention. The story combines playful illustrations with lighthearted comedy, exploring themes of individuality, humor, and holiday traditions for children.

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j394.2618/Willan
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Location Call Number   Status
Children's Room j394.2618/Willan Due Apr 28, 2026
Subjects
Genres
Juvenile works
Novels
Pictorial works
Children's stories Pictorial works
Humorous fiction
Picture books
Published
New York, NY : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers [2026]
Language
English
Main Author
Alex Willan (author)
Edition
First edition
Physical Description
1 volume (unpaged) : color illustrations ; 29 cm
Audience
Ages 4-8
Grades P-3
ISBN
9781665962612
Contents unavailable.
Review by Kirkus Book Review

A put-upon goblin learns to feel the love. Gilbert, a bald, mint-green goblin, is far too busy for Valentine's Day. From bird-watching to goat yoga, his schedule is full. Besides, "Valentine's Day is all about love and flowers and all that other mushy malarkey"--Gilbert doesn't need it! He isn't interested in those heart-shaped boxes of candy with their gross coconut surprises, and he's not a fan of the so-called stars of Valentine's Day: cupids with their gorgeous hair and love arrows. But the cupid squad doesn't give up on Gilbert and sends him zigging and zagging to avoid their arrows. Believing he's been hit (in fact he unwittingly backed up into a cactus), Gilbert finds himself falling in love with love and eagerly accepting his friends' valentines. Humor certain to please readers young and old is woven throughout Gilbert's sassy narration and the candy-colored illustrations, which trace the goblin's metamorphosis from sourpuss to lovebug. The reasons for Gilbert's true change of heart--and why he was so loath to celebrate to begin with--are left unspoken, but readers may enjoy coming up with their own ideas. Front endpapers featuring candy hearts festooned with "meh" and "nope" capture the anti-Valentine vibe, while supportive cards from Gilbert's friends can be found on the back endpapers. A Valentine's tale that even the grumpiest readers won't be able to resist.(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.