Saint Valentine the Kindhearted: The History and Legends of God's Brave and Loving Servant
Ebook
2025 Illumination Award Silver Medal
Share a Timeless Tale of Love and Kindness with Kids
Have you ever wondered why we celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14? Behind the flowers, candy, and cards lies the inspiring story of Saint Valentine—a man of deep faith, kindness, and love.
Saint Valentine the Kindhearted takes young readers on a beautifully illustrated journey through the life of Saint Valentine, an Italian priest who lived in the 200s. This enchanting tale, written in rhyme, shares how Valentine’s acts of love and care were a reflection of God’s love for him.
Families will delight in the vibrant illustrations by Ned Bustard and the uplifting message of compassion that flows through every page. Accompanied by a note from the author, the book includes thought-provoking suggestions to continue the conversation with kids about love, kindness, and faith.
Saint Valentine the Kindhearted is perfect for Christian parents, grandparents, and caregivers—or anyone looking to share meaningful stories of faith and love with the children in their lives. Celebrate February 14 with a tale that reminds us all of the beauty found in loving others.
What young hearts will discover in this book:
- A poetic retelling of Saint Valentine’s life and legacy
- Stunning, full-color illustrations to captivate readers
- Encouraging themes of love, faith, and kindness
Discover the story of Saint Valentine and inspire the children in your life to live with the same love and kindness today!
"Ned Bustard's striking woodcuts continue to tell tales of familiar saints. He seamlessly mixes church tradition with historical fact, filling the spaces between with rich color."
"Weaving whimsy with history, this book invites kids (and their grownups) to live into rhythms of love as we follow the way of Jesus. From his catchy poems to his thoughtful illustrations, it's clear that Ned Bustard creates with deep care and intention as he points families to the love God has for us—and to the love we are called to share with our neighbor."
"Families will delight in the rollicking verse and charming, vibrant illustrations that fill the pages of this book. Ned Bustard's story illuminates the life of a courageous and committed man who loved so truly and widely that we still celebrate a holiday named for him that is dedicated to love. Without condemning our culture's fixation on eros (romantic love), Ned Bustard's story about Saint Valentine provides space for children to consider three other types of love as well—storges (familial), phileo (friendship), and agape (divine). Bottom line: I loved this book, and you will too."
"This rendering of the story of Saint Valentine is so rich and delightful that it will be a classic of children's literature for years, even centuries, from now."
"Ned Bustard's deft artistic touch brings Saint Valentine's story to life with careful but playful storytelling. The illustrations are rich and worth returning to again and again. Saint Valentine the Kindhearted will be a gift to reread every February—with or without children!"
"Ned Bustard's retelling of Saint Valentine's story not only delights the eye and ear in the most whimsically and theologically satisfying fashion, but it also introduces children to the true Valentine and thus also to the true nature of Christlike love. What a gift to so many families!"
"Each spread includes rhyming prose on one side coupled with a brilliant print by Bustard on the other. His prints are a unique joy that convey the meaning of the accompanying prose in a fun, unusual way."
"The simple, colorful illustrations add warmth to Saint Valentine's story in this picture book retelling that emphasizes the Christian origin of the contemporary holiday. Saint Valentine the Kindhearted is a choice pick for church and family Christian picture book collections. Highly recommended."
- Title: Saint Valentine the Kindhearted: The History and Legends of God's Brave and Loving Servant
- Author: Ned Bustard
- Publisher: IVP Kids
- Print Publication Date: 2024
- Logos Release Date: 2023
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Ebook
- ISBNs: 9781514008775, 9781514008768, 1514008769, 1514008777
- Resource ID: LLS:9781514008775
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2025-02-28T04:06:16Z
Ned Bustard is a graphic designer, children’s book illustrator, author, and printmaker. As the creative director for Square Halo Books Inc. and curator of the Square Halo Gallery, Ned has lectured at colleges, schools, churches, and conferences. His work is found in numerous titles, including Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver, Saint Patrick the Forgiver, The O in Hope, and Every Moment Holy.