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Jerome by Heart
This story follows a little boy named Raphael, whose daily rhythm is steeped in his immense affection for his friend Jerome. The two boys share jokes and snacks and plan future adventures to the Himalayas. Even when Raphael’s constant talk of Jerome is driving his parents crazy, he remains steadfast: “Raphael loves Jerome. I say it. It’s easy.” And the truth is, when he’s with Jerome, Raphael feels happy, liked, and understood― even special. Thomas Scotto’s simple, strong, and insightful prose and Olivier Tallec’s delightful, expressive illustrations give much emotion and immediacy to the story.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
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May 18, 2018I didn't enjoy the artwork, and I think something was maybe lost in translation. I'm all for the all-encompassing love of children, but this kid's obsession with Jerome comes off as creepy, especially when he's like, 'I love this guy so much I want to eat him, haha only kidding'. Maybe I just watch too much Law and Order SVU, but I just want to tell Jerome to RUN.
June 6, 2019
Now truth be told and honestly, I absolutely do not find anything at all either morally or philosophically wrong, inappropriate or to be approached as in any manner condemnable with regard to young Raphael being in love with his best friend Jerome. And therefore I also consider Thomas Scotto's Jerome by Heart (which has been translated from Scotto's original French Jerôme par coeur by Claudia Zoe Bedrick and Karin Snelson and is equally a 2019 Mildred Batchelder Award honouree) in many ways a joyous celebration of love (and of course, as such also in whatever form love may present itself).
However and although I am indeed supportive and even very much in favour of Raphael and Jerome, of two young boys being in love with one another, personally, I also find that in particular Raphael's complete and utter devotion to Jerome is not simply a depiction of same sex love and affection, but is also uncomfortably presenting that Raphael is rather problematically obsessive and even potentially possessive about Jerome (and yes, so much into Jerome, so constantly thinking about him, dreaming about him etc. that for me, Jerome by Heart ends up feeling as though Raphael is actually almost a bit stalkerish with his one hundred percent focus on Jerome and indeed that I do also have to wonder whether Jerome, who does seem to have other friends aside from Raphael might well end up in the future feeling at best a bit stifled by Raphael and his total, his absolute Jerome or nobody devotion). Combined with the fact that I also have not found Olivier Tallec's accompanying illustrations (albeit that I do indeed enjoy the illustrator's sense of colour) all that aesthetically to my tastes (and consider especially Tallec's human figures a bit caricature like and therefore not really all that visually appealing to and for my eyes), I can and will only consider two stars for Thomas Scotto's Jerome by Heart, for a sweet enough picture book celebration of Raphael and Jerome's relationship and their mutually loving affection that nevertheless does still leave due to Raphael's in my opinion quite massively obsessive attachment to Jerome a somewhat strange and problematic taste and flavour in my mouth.
However and although I am indeed supportive and even very much in favour of Raphael and Jerome, of two young boys being in love with one another, personally, I also find that in particular Raphael's complete and utter devotion to Jerome is not simply a depiction of same sex love and affection, but is also uncomfortably presenting that Raphael is rather problematically obsessive and even potentially possessive about Jerome (and yes, so much into Jerome, so constantly thinking about him, dreaming about him etc. that for me, Jerome by Heart ends up feeling as though Raphael is actually almost a bit stalkerish with his one hundred percent focus on Jerome and indeed that I do also have to wonder whether Jerome, who does seem to have other friends aside from Raphael might well end up in the future feeling at best a bit stifled by Raphael and his total, his absolute Jerome or nobody devotion). Combined with the fact that I also have not found Olivier Tallec's accompanying illustrations (albeit that I do indeed enjoy the illustrator's sense of colour) all that aesthetically to my tastes (and consider especially Tallec's human figures a bit caricature like and therefore not really all that visually appealing to and for my eyes), I can and will only consider two stars for Thomas Scotto's Jerome by Heart, for a sweet enough picture book celebration of Raphael and Jerome's relationship and their mutually loving affection that nevertheless does still leave due to Raphael's in my opinion quite massively obsessive attachment to Jerome a somewhat strange and problematic taste and flavour in my mouth.
June 22, 2019
I liked this little children's story about an intense friendship between two little boys. We hear the tale from Raphael's point of view and learn that the adults in his life are not thrilled with and try to steer him away from his great love for his friend Jerome. Girl to girl childhood friendships are often accepted as "best friends" even when the girls are obsessive, want to dress as twins, etc. Not so for young boys, who are often teased or bullied by family as well as classmates for such intensity. The book wonderfully captures the feeling of being loved for who you are - outside of the family circle. Batchelder Award Nominee (2019) for Children's Literature translated into English.
January 12, 2019
It is easy to tell someone that you love them; especially when you know that the feeling is unquestionably reciprocated. But, for Raphael, our young narrator, it is a little more difficult because society isn't ready to accept his love for Jerome. In a beautiful, French picturebook written by Scotto (translated by Bedrick and Snelson) and illustrated by the wonderful Tallec, who blessed us with Big Wolf and Little Wolf, is a story that celebrates the fierce love one boy has for his best friend.
With a beautiful narrative rhythm in both image and text, Raphael introduces us to his best friend, Jerome, who seems a little older and a little more assured but will still, happily grip his friend's hand tight whilst they cycle and walk around the suburb or stick up for his smaller friend if he is picked on at school. The time they spend together, sharing each other's food or running and laughing together sees the pages awash in bright yellows and reds; Raphael's happiness literally brightens the page. Yet when his parents question his friendship and wish of him that he would adhere to what it is boys should do and how they should be, Raphael finds his very beliefs and understanding of love questioned and with that, his world becomes saturated in moody blues.
It is only when Raphael casts off these doubts through remembering the reciprocal simplicity of the love he and Jerome have for each other that he escapes.
I can see why Popova calls it a text to adds to the LGBT community but it could also be something that celebrates the gradual chipping away of entrenched masculine ideologies in which boys can hold hands and love each other the same way girls can. Whatever your interpretation, and both are welcome, this is a beautiful story which all children should encounter.
With a beautiful narrative rhythm in both image and text, Raphael introduces us to his best friend, Jerome, who seems a little older and a little more assured but will still, happily grip his friend's hand tight whilst they cycle and walk around the suburb or stick up for his smaller friend if he is picked on at school. The time they spend together, sharing each other's food or running and laughing together sees the pages awash in bright yellows and reds; Raphael's happiness literally brightens the page. Yet when his parents question his friendship and wish of him that he would adhere to what it is boys should do and how they should be, Raphael finds his very beliefs and understanding of love questioned and with that, his world becomes saturated in moody blues.
It is only when Raphael casts off these doubts through remembering the reciprocal simplicity of the love he and Jerome have for each other that he escapes.
I can see why Popova calls it a text to adds to the LGBT community but it could also be something that celebrates the gradual chipping away of entrenched masculine ideologies in which boys can hold hands and love each other the same way girls can. Whatever your interpretation, and both are welcome, this is a beautiful story which all children should encounter.
March 13, 2018
The intense love a young child feels for his best friend is the topic of this sweet picture book. Raphael feels good saying out loud that he loves Jerome. Jerome really sees Raphael. He shares his snacks with Raphael. The friends hold hands and laugh until their stomachs hurt. Raphael's parents are uncomfortable with how much Raphael loves Jerome. I love that Raphael is not deterred by his parents' reactions. Honoring the intensity of friendship, and, yes, maybe a friendship which could eventually turn into romance, is a lovely thing to normalize. Another aspect of the book I really appreciate is portraying boys' friendships as loving, and not just rough and tumble, as is often the stereotype. Tallec's tender illustrations keep Raphael and Jerome at the center of each page. People and settings are spare, but perfectly express the emotions and situations.
April 29, 2018
Beautiful children’s book about one boy loving another boy. Very sweet and innocent. Translated from the original French version. Jerome and Raphael forever.
January 19, 2018
OH MY GOOD LORD THIS BOOK IS ADORABLE.
Beautifully written, with lots of whimsical affirmations of love that sound just like how an innocent child would speak them.
Raphael, the narrator, loves his best friend Jerome. He likes holding his hand in line at school, he likes to play make-believe with him, and he even dreams about Jerome at night. He sees that his parents aren't really comfortable with his constant refrain of how much he loves Jerome, which makes him a bit sad. But he also won't let that stop him from loving Jerome just as much anyway.
I actually wanna cry, this book is so pure and so beautiful. A love letter that you'll definitely want to remember.
Beautifully written, with lots of whimsical affirmations of love that sound just like how an innocent child would speak them.
Raphael, the narrator, loves his best friend Jerome. He likes holding his hand in line at school, he likes to play make-believe with him, and he even dreams about Jerome at night. He sees that his parents aren't really comfortable with his constant refrain of how much he loves Jerome, which makes him a bit sad. But he also won't let that stop him from loving Jerome just as much anyway.
I actually wanna cry, this book is so pure and so beautiful. A love letter that you'll definitely want to remember.
December 31, 2018
This is a children’s picture book about two little boys named Raphael and Jerome. Eventually Raphael realizes that he is in love with Jerome and he gains the confidence to admit it out loud to himself.
May 27, 2018
Translated from the French
Age range: 4 to 8 years
Had a hard time with this one. Though "Love is Love is Love" is a sentiment I embrace, I felt that the feelings that Rafael has for Jerome are all-consuming and obsessive.
"I forgot about my mom and dad. I think only about Jerome."
Nope. Not a fan.
Age range: 4 to 8 years
Had a hard time with this one. Though "Love is Love is Love" is a sentiment I embrace, I felt that the feelings that Rafael has for Jerome are all-consuming and obsessive.
"I forgot about my mom and dad. I think only about Jerome."
Nope. Not a fan.
November 17, 2019
An enjoyable read about a little boy who loves one of his friends very dearly. He recognises that his feelings are stronger than he may have initially thought however this does not put him off expressing them. This book promotes the idea that children shouldn't be afraid to hide their emotions regardless of who it concerns.
October 17, 2021
I also found this book on the Association for Library Service to Children website. This book was a Mildred L. Batchelder award honor book in 2019. The book was originally published in French in 2009 and was translated into English by Claudia Zoe Bedrick and Karin Snelson in 2018. This book has won many awards, including A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of 2018 award, A Brain Pickings Best Children’s Book award in 2018, and a 2018 New York Public Library Best Books for Kids Selection. The story is told in the first-person point of view by the main character, Raphael. Raphael isn’t afraid to tell the world that he loves his best friend Jerome. Jerome sees him, defends him from bullies, picks him to be partners on field trips, and shares his snacks with him. They hold hands and play together. Raphael loves Jerome, despite what anyone has to say about it, including his parents. His parents seem uninterested and even upset about his love for Jerome and do not want him to talk about it at home, which upsets Raphael. His love for his friend is very intense and simple.
This story has themes of love and acceptance. I like that the story is just about a simple friendship between two boys. Oftentimes, we see stories about two girls that are best friends and when they say they love each other or hold hands, or defend each other, we don’t think twice about it. We think they have a great friendship and that it is cute. Yet, reading a lot of reviews and information about this book, there seem to be a lot of issues with the friendship displayed between these two boys. Though it may be implied or hinted at throughout the book, there is never a specific romantic vibe between the two friends. Raphael just loves his friend and it's that simple for him. He doesn’t understand why it would upset people that Jerome makes him happy and it's all he wants to talk about. I appreciated the topic of this book and I think the friendship between the two boys is displayed beautifully. I know some will have issues with the intensity of Raphael’s love for Jerome, to the point of saying he would run away with him to the Himalayas, but I don’t necessarily find it creepy or weird like I have seen in other reviews/synopsis. The parents do not seem to be in the story for anything other than a “villain”, attempting to keep Raphael from loving Jerome. Raphael’s mom and dad only pop into the story when Raphael is talking about Jerome and they always talk about how they don’t want to hear it. For example, Raphael’s dad thinks “it's a pity that Jerome doesn’t play soccer. But just because Jerome doesn’t play rough doesn’t mean he’s not strong. He is strong.” When Raphael tells his parents he had a dream about Jerome, they simply try to ignore him by telling him to eat his cereal or stop talking, that’s enough. They never appear in the story in any other capacity, though this could be because the story is told from Raphael’s point of view and Jerome is the most important thing in his life and his parents are not being supportive about his friendship. I appreciate the fact that this story shows these two boys playing together nicely and holding hands and chasing butterflies. They aren’t shown as boys in a typical gender role who are rough and tumble and just fight or wrestle or play sports. The characters in the story are not specifically mentioned to be diverse, and they do not appear to be culturally or racially diverse, but even though it isn’t explicitly stated, I would say there is sexual orientation diversity. As I mentioned, Raphael and Jerome are friends. They are very young though. If their friendship continues in this intense way, those friendship feelings might or might not turn into something more, at least for Raphael, who seems to be heading this way. The boys and their friendship are portrayed much differently than a lot of boys in books.
The pictures in the story are nice and resemble paintings that you would see at a museum. You can still see the sketch marks and it looks like they have been painted. I think it is interesting that Jerome and Raphael look so much alike. I’m not sure if this is done on purpose or if this wasn’t even thought about, but the boys’ faces look the same, their hair color is the same, they only look different in the sense of height, and Raphael’s face is a little fuller than Jerome’s. This is a picture book, so there are pictures to accompany each page of the story. Sometimes the pictures either add more or complement the words. For example, on page 7 and 8, where Raphael explains that his dad thinks its a pity that Jerome doesn’t play soccer, the dad can be seen on a field with a soccer ball, watching as Jerome chases butterflies with a smile on his face, and Raphael is beaming from ear to ear watching his friend. On the next page with the actual words, the dad is seen sitting on a bench with the soccer ball between his legs, a sullen look on his face while he watches two girls roughly playing soccer together. The same is true of page 14. This is the page where Raphael mentions that he had a dream about Jerome, but his parents cut him off and don’t want him talking about his friendship with Jerome anymore. You can see that Raphael is visibly upset. His eyes are scrunched together and he has a mad expression. He has his arms crossed and it looks like he’s stomping off to his room. Sometimes though, the pictures don’t necessarily make sense or add anything to the story. For example, on page 15 when Raphael is talking about finding a present for Jerome, you can see in the pictures that his room has stuff everywhere because he has ransacked it. But I am confused by the things seen in his room. There are two giant bears, which I am not sure if they are stuffed animals or not because it appears that they are looking at him. There are cars and huge airplanes in his room, and something that looks like a ghost playing with his foosball table. I’m not sure what the purpose of this picture is in relation to the words and how it contributes to the story. Another thing to mention is that sometimes it is difficult or confusing to follow along with the story, because the transitions from each page don’t always make sense. For example, on page 15, Raphael mentions that he is looking for a present for Jerome that will last forever and how he has to find the perfect thing. On the next page he says he is ransacking his room because Jerome said he would go on vacation with him anytime, maybe even to the Himalayas. I was confused reading this page and trying to figure out when this happened, why it was important, and how that was going to be possible, especially if Raphael’s parents aren’t too happy with his friendship with Jerome. I just felt like the story could have gone without this line and this page, and it would have been just fine.
This book is recommended for children ages 4-8 years old, but most appropriate for students in 2nd or 3rd grade and up. I think this is a book that can be used in the classroom, either just as a read aloud to enjoy, or for learning how to write about emotions or important people, moments, or places in our lives. The reader can see the love that Raphael has for Jerome. It is clear in their actions for one another, their words, and Raphael simply states it multiple times throughout the book. This could be used as a mentor text to show students how we can write about the important people in our lives, providing details about them and their words and actions, as well as how we feel about them and why they are important, which the author does so beautifully with Raphael’s story. It would also benefit students when just getting them to write about their own personal experiences. This story is so personal to Raphael and everything that happens is real. This is a good book to teach students how to write true stories and how to share their personal experiences with others, even if it is something as simple as a friend they have, or a toy they really love, or the pet they have. I could see myself using this book in my classroom mostly as just a read aloud with my young students. During the read aloud, I would stress how this book can widen their empathy and help them understand their own experiences and feelings, and help them see examples of healthy and simple friendships, especially since my students really struggle with their social skills and making friends/relationships with peers at their young age.
This story has themes of love and acceptance. I like that the story is just about a simple friendship between two boys. Oftentimes, we see stories about two girls that are best friends and when they say they love each other or hold hands, or defend each other, we don’t think twice about it. We think they have a great friendship and that it is cute. Yet, reading a lot of reviews and information about this book, there seem to be a lot of issues with the friendship displayed between these two boys. Though it may be implied or hinted at throughout the book, there is never a specific romantic vibe between the two friends. Raphael just loves his friend and it's that simple for him. He doesn’t understand why it would upset people that Jerome makes him happy and it's all he wants to talk about. I appreciated the topic of this book and I think the friendship between the two boys is displayed beautifully. I know some will have issues with the intensity of Raphael’s love for Jerome, to the point of saying he would run away with him to the Himalayas, but I don’t necessarily find it creepy or weird like I have seen in other reviews/synopsis. The parents do not seem to be in the story for anything other than a “villain”, attempting to keep Raphael from loving Jerome. Raphael’s mom and dad only pop into the story when Raphael is talking about Jerome and they always talk about how they don’t want to hear it. For example, Raphael’s dad thinks “it's a pity that Jerome doesn’t play soccer. But just because Jerome doesn’t play rough doesn’t mean he’s not strong. He is strong.” When Raphael tells his parents he had a dream about Jerome, they simply try to ignore him by telling him to eat his cereal or stop talking, that’s enough. They never appear in the story in any other capacity, though this could be because the story is told from Raphael’s point of view and Jerome is the most important thing in his life and his parents are not being supportive about his friendship. I appreciate the fact that this story shows these two boys playing together nicely and holding hands and chasing butterflies. They aren’t shown as boys in a typical gender role who are rough and tumble and just fight or wrestle or play sports. The characters in the story are not specifically mentioned to be diverse, and they do not appear to be culturally or racially diverse, but even though it isn’t explicitly stated, I would say there is sexual orientation diversity. As I mentioned, Raphael and Jerome are friends. They are very young though. If their friendship continues in this intense way, those friendship feelings might or might not turn into something more, at least for Raphael, who seems to be heading this way. The boys and their friendship are portrayed much differently than a lot of boys in books.
The pictures in the story are nice and resemble paintings that you would see at a museum. You can still see the sketch marks and it looks like they have been painted. I think it is interesting that Jerome and Raphael look so much alike. I’m not sure if this is done on purpose or if this wasn’t even thought about, but the boys’ faces look the same, their hair color is the same, they only look different in the sense of height, and Raphael’s face is a little fuller than Jerome’s. This is a picture book, so there are pictures to accompany each page of the story. Sometimes the pictures either add more or complement the words. For example, on page 7 and 8, where Raphael explains that his dad thinks its a pity that Jerome doesn’t play soccer, the dad can be seen on a field with a soccer ball, watching as Jerome chases butterflies with a smile on his face, and Raphael is beaming from ear to ear watching his friend. On the next page with the actual words, the dad is seen sitting on a bench with the soccer ball between his legs, a sullen look on his face while he watches two girls roughly playing soccer together. The same is true of page 14. This is the page where Raphael mentions that he had a dream about Jerome, but his parents cut him off and don’t want him talking about his friendship with Jerome anymore. You can see that Raphael is visibly upset. His eyes are scrunched together and he has a mad expression. He has his arms crossed and it looks like he’s stomping off to his room. Sometimes though, the pictures don’t necessarily make sense or add anything to the story. For example, on page 15 when Raphael is talking about finding a present for Jerome, you can see in the pictures that his room has stuff everywhere because he has ransacked it. But I am confused by the things seen in his room. There are two giant bears, which I am not sure if they are stuffed animals or not because it appears that they are looking at him. There are cars and huge airplanes in his room, and something that looks like a ghost playing with his foosball table. I’m not sure what the purpose of this picture is in relation to the words and how it contributes to the story. Another thing to mention is that sometimes it is difficult or confusing to follow along with the story, because the transitions from each page don’t always make sense. For example, on page 15, Raphael mentions that he is looking for a present for Jerome that will last forever and how he has to find the perfect thing. On the next page he says he is ransacking his room because Jerome said he would go on vacation with him anytime, maybe even to the Himalayas. I was confused reading this page and trying to figure out when this happened, why it was important, and how that was going to be possible, especially if Raphael’s parents aren’t too happy with his friendship with Jerome. I just felt like the story could have gone without this line and this page, and it would have been just fine.
This book is recommended for children ages 4-8 years old, but most appropriate for students in 2nd or 3rd grade and up. I think this is a book that can be used in the classroom, either just as a read aloud to enjoy, or for learning how to write about emotions or important people, moments, or places in our lives. The reader can see the love that Raphael has for Jerome. It is clear in their actions for one another, their words, and Raphael simply states it multiple times throughout the book. This could be used as a mentor text to show students how we can write about the important people in our lives, providing details about them and their words and actions, as well as how we feel about them and why they are important, which the author does so beautifully with Raphael’s story. It would also benefit students when just getting them to write about their own personal experiences. This story is so personal to Raphael and everything that happens is real. This is a good book to teach students how to write true stories and how to share their personal experiences with others, even if it is something as simple as a friend they have, or a toy they really love, or the pet they have. I could see myself using this book in my classroom mostly as just a read aloud with my young students. During the read aloud, I would stress how this book can widen their empathy and help them understand their own experiences and feelings, and help them see examples of healthy and simple friendships, especially since my students really struggle with their social skills and making friends/relationships with peers at their young age.
June 7, 2018
I liked the idea of this book better than the book itself.
Kids, even little kids, get crushes. It's innocent, it's adorable, it doesn't really mean anything, but it's cute and fun and you really never see that kind of innocent relationship between same-sex characters in books for this age group. So I was excited about this. But in the writing, it comes off as defensive, possibly creepy.
From the beginning, Rafael is very defensive of how he feels. Yeah, he gets pushback from his parents, I get that, but there's no innocence to his voice, no moment of just reveling in his feelings, except when he says he will make every day for Jerome and run away to the Himalayas with him, which is just...too...much. And while there are going to be parents that give some pushback to little boys who love each other like this...the parents aren't parental at all. They seem to be there just to be disapproving.
Overall, there's not enough of the innocent kids here and too much of the grown up voice trying to SAY SOMETHING. It feels very forced.
Kids, even little kids, get crushes. It's innocent, it's adorable, it doesn't really mean anything, but it's cute and fun and you really never see that kind of innocent relationship between same-sex characters in books for this age group. So I was excited about this. But in the writing, it comes off as defensive, possibly creepy.
From the beginning, Rafael is very defensive of how he feels. Yeah, he gets pushback from his parents, I get that, but there's no innocence to his voice, no moment of just reveling in his feelings, except when he says he will make every day for Jerome and run away to the Himalayas with him, which is just...too...much. And while there are going to be parents that give some pushback to little boys who love each other like this...the parents aren't parental at all. They seem to be there just to be disapproving.
Overall, there's not enough of the innocent kids here and too much of the grown up voice trying to SAY SOMETHING. It feels very forced.
February 16, 2019
I'm obviously in the minority here, but I found Raphael's love for Jerome to be a bit creepy. I love the portrayal of male friendships as being strong and not all macho. I love that Raphael recognizes that Jerome looks out for him and is a good friend. But, the idea of eating Jerome and giving up everything else in his life is a little obsessive and melodramatic.
July 4, 2018
This is an OWL BAT BAT OWL book -- the kids get it right and the adults mess it up.
October 18, 2020
Jerome by Heart is a French picture book by Thomas Scotto about a young boy named Raphael and his best friend Jerome. Raphael is infatuated with Jerome, wanting nothing more than to spend time with him. The entire book is narrated by Raphael and consists mostly of his inner thoughts. Jerome by Heart was a Batchelder Award Honor winner in 2019.
The book is unclear about the nature of Raphael's love for Jerome and whether it is platonic or romantic, but it serves as a celebration of the close bond that can exist between two boys. Throughout the story, Raphael's parents subtlety disapprove of how close the two boys are, and there are hints about the parents holding gender normative views, such as when Raphael's dad "thinks it's a pity that Jerome doesn't play soccer." However, Raphael's pure love and admiration for Jerome shines though every page, showing children that what matters most is how you feel about someone else.
The illustrations by Olivier Tallec Read are beautiful and complement the text well. Tallec Read does a great job of conveying the world from the perspective of a young boy, as the parents tower over him and Raphael's imagination takes him and Jerome around the world. The shading and colors capture the mood of the story well.
Interestingly, we never see Jerome's perspective in the story. Raphael shares his parents words' and perspectives, but he never does with Jerome. One page includes descriptions of Jerome's kindness toward Raphael, but other than that, Jerome is simply presented as Raphael's infatuation. I think the book would have benefitted from including a little more from Jerome's point of view to make their mutual bond more realistic.
Overall, this is a sweet story with a universal message about the power of love.
The book is unclear about the nature of Raphael's love for Jerome and whether it is platonic or romantic, but it serves as a celebration of the close bond that can exist between two boys. Throughout the story, Raphael's parents subtlety disapprove of how close the two boys are, and there are hints about the parents holding gender normative views, such as when Raphael's dad "thinks it's a pity that Jerome doesn't play soccer." However, Raphael's pure love and admiration for Jerome shines though every page, showing children that what matters most is how you feel about someone else.
The illustrations by Olivier Tallec Read are beautiful and complement the text well. Tallec Read does a great job of conveying the world from the perspective of a young boy, as the parents tower over him and Raphael's imagination takes him and Jerome around the world. The shading and colors capture the mood of the story well.
Interestingly, we never see Jerome's perspective in the story. Raphael shares his parents words' and perspectives, but he never does with Jerome. One page includes descriptions of Jerome's kindness toward Raphael, but other than that, Jerome is simply presented as Raphael's infatuation. I think the book would have benefitted from including a little more from Jerome's point of view to make their mutual bond more realistic.
Overall, this is a sweet story with a universal message about the power of love.
May 4, 2019
Jerome by Heart by Thomas Scotto is a 2019 Mildred L. Batchelder honor book. It goes through the story of a young boy named Raphel who has a deep love for his friend Jerome. The book takes place in the point of view of Raphel and throughout the story he describes why he loves Jerome and how his parents feel about him.
This book was written originally in French and I think was translated very well. It can be easily read and understood with the exception of a single simile mentioned on page 13 of the text. This is an area where we can see that the culture may affect one's understanding of the wording since speaking about the dad's voice being "like sharp fish bones in my hot chocolate" is not something that is a commonly used phrase in the United States.
The author did a great job of highlighting the theme of love through LGBT culture. The love Raphael has for Jerome is spread across the words and really allows the reader to feel the love that Raphael speaks about. In addition to this, the author chose words that are not very difficult to understand so younger readers can also engage with the story of a young boy in love with a friend.
The illustrations are also well done and the colors used help highlight the mood of the pages. For example, on page 14 the illustration shows a dark background which suggests something negative occurring. Reading the text on page 13 we can see that the page speaks about Raphael and his parents being disappointed.
One thing I did not fully like about the book, though, was how the parents were portrayed. Reading the story I could see how sweet Raphael was to Jerome and how much he loves him, but despite that, the parents seemed almost to be disapproving of it. I think having supporting parents in the book would've created a more positive image for LGBT people, but I also think that the image of the parents being disapproving is also important in sparking conversation.
I think this would be a great book to use with younger students to bring in LGBT culture within the classroom. It serves as a great way to show how people can love whoever they want. In addition to this, I think this book could be used with older elementary/middle grade students as a way to start a discussion about LGBT culture. Specifically, the parents within the book would be a great talking point since they are seen as disapproving parents instead of supporting ones.
This book was written originally in French and I think was translated very well. It can be easily read and understood with the exception of a single simile mentioned on page 13 of the text. This is an area where we can see that the culture may affect one's understanding of the wording since speaking about the dad's voice being "like sharp fish bones in my hot chocolate" is not something that is a commonly used phrase in the United States.
The author did a great job of highlighting the theme of love through LGBT culture. The love Raphael has for Jerome is spread across the words and really allows the reader to feel the love that Raphael speaks about. In addition to this, the author chose words that are not very difficult to understand so younger readers can also engage with the story of a young boy in love with a friend.
The illustrations are also well done and the colors used help highlight the mood of the pages. For example, on page 14 the illustration shows a dark background which suggests something negative occurring. Reading the text on page 13 we can see that the page speaks about Raphael and his parents being disappointed.
One thing I did not fully like about the book, though, was how the parents were portrayed. Reading the story I could see how sweet Raphael was to Jerome and how much he loves him, but despite that, the parents seemed almost to be disapproving of it. I think having supporting parents in the book would've created a more positive image for LGBT people, but I also think that the image of the parents being disapproving is also important in sparking conversation.
I think this would be a great book to use with younger students to bring in LGBT culture within the classroom. It serves as a great way to show how people can love whoever they want. In addition to this, I think this book could be used with older elementary/middle grade students as a way to start a discussion about LGBT culture. Specifically, the parents within the book would be a great talking point since they are seen as disapproving parents instead of supporting ones.
October 21, 2019
When I first read this book, I wasn't sure what message Scotto was intending to put across to the reader. However upon reflection and reading a very insightful blog post ( https://www.brainpickings.org/2018/03... ) , I have come to form my own understanding of the picture book. For me, the book serves as a means to defy social norms and break down ideas that perhaps overwhelm some of us. I particularly liked how Scotto included Raphael's parents ideas of Jerome, which I think demonstrates the heart of a child compared to that of an adult. It is Raphael's parents small perspective that builds a wall between the love these two boys share.
Additionally, the book acts as a social commentary on society's idea of 'masculinity' which focuses on 'tough' 'strong' boys. Jerome and Raphael help to break these ideas down. Overall, the book is a story of love. Love, that no matter how society views it, is unconditional and cannot be broken. This is 100% a text that I think every child should have read to them.
Additionally, the book acts as a social commentary on society's idea of 'masculinity' which focuses on 'tough' 'strong' boys. Jerome and Raphael help to break these ideas down. Overall, the book is a story of love. Love, that no matter how society views it, is unconditional and cannot be broken. This is 100% a text that I think every child should have read to them.
November 12, 2019
WOW! What a book! The book is about a deeply-build relationship between Jerome and his friend. It is clear within the book that Jerome is aware of the society not ready to accept two boys holding hands and boys not conforming to their stereotypes, but Jerome does not care!
What makes this book unique is its versatility in how it can be used: either to promote LGBT or that it is ok to be different!
What makes this book unique is its versatility in how it can be used: either to promote LGBT or that it is ok to be different!
November 20, 2019
Jerome by Heart is such a sweet and heart-warming book. It follows Raphael and his emotional journey whilst he recognises and accepts his emotions towards Jerome. However, it is hard to read about this parent's difficulty with accepting Raphael's feelings as this unfortunately continues to happen in different family settings. Children show be able to express their emotions and this book helps promote that. A brilliant book, which I would love to share with all children!
January 30, 2021
This book is a 2019 Honor Batchelder Award winning book found on the Batchelder Award website. I read/listened to it on You Tube. It is translated from French. It is a sweet story about two young boys that play every day and love spending time together. They defend each other and comfort each other when one is having a bad day. However, they struggle with society’s perception of love and just know that they love each other. And that should be enough. This book would be great for younger students, K-2, to show that everyone should be accepted for who they are.
January 8, 2019
A beautiful love story between two boys.
March 6, 2019
this book was beautifully written just for young children and the support it gives for LGBQ people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2022
I located this book using the International Children’s Literature Wakelet provided in this course. It was found in an article published by Ruth Ahmedzai Kemp on the website Words Without Borders (wordswithoutborders.org). The book was translated from the language of French to English.
Authors Thomas Scotto and Olivier Tallec put forward a picture book about a friendship between two young boys named Jerome and Raphael. Raphael is the narrator who expresses fondness and admiration for Jerome. The two affectionate characters ride bikes together with their hands interlocked, eat snacks together, and plan vacations and activities together. The connection makes Raphael feel gleeful and secure.
However, Raphael faces conflict in the story when his parents try to subdue and ignore the constant talk of deep feelings. In particular, Raphael tells his parents he had a dream that was good “in a Jerome kind of way” and his parents stare at their shoes with their arms crossed and say sternly, “Now, that’s enough!” Gender norms are also placed on Jerome when Raphael’s father says, “It’s a pity that Jerome doesn’t play soccer.” The dismissiveness from adults is not only represented in words but in the illustrations as well. The reader notices colors in the book changing from warm colors of yellow and red to cool colors like dark blue.
Through deep questioning and reflection, Jerome comes to the realization that he can love anybody he wants. He ends the book by saying, “Raphael loves Jerome. I can say it. It’s easy.” According to our textbook, Children’s Books in Children’s Hands, this powerful lesson learned is a strength of this children’s literature piece (p. 8).
I would recommend this book to elementary-aged students (students aged 5-8). The work can be interpreted differently by readers. Some readers can take the perspective that these boys are simply two close friends. On the contrary, some implied readers may perceive a deeper meaning in working through, accepting, and expressing difficult feelings about sexual orientation. One potential classroom use would be to talk about friendship. Students could identify and draw pictures about what it takes to make a friend or even positive qualities to look for in friendships.
I accessed the printed book version. The words and illustrations were powerful and made for a very intimate book. There was so much to be discovered with rereading!
Authors Thomas Scotto and Olivier Tallec put forward a picture book about a friendship between two young boys named Jerome and Raphael. Raphael is the narrator who expresses fondness and admiration for Jerome. The two affectionate characters ride bikes together with their hands interlocked, eat snacks together, and plan vacations and activities together. The connection makes Raphael feel gleeful and secure.
However, Raphael faces conflict in the story when his parents try to subdue and ignore the constant talk of deep feelings. In particular, Raphael tells his parents he had a dream that was good “in a Jerome kind of way” and his parents stare at their shoes with their arms crossed and say sternly, “Now, that’s enough!” Gender norms are also placed on Jerome when Raphael’s father says, “It’s a pity that Jerome doesn’t play soccer.” The dismissiveness from adults is not only represented in words but in the illustrations as well. The reader notices colors in the book changing from warm colors of yellow and red to cool colors like dark blue.
Through deep questioning and reflection, Jerome comes to the realization that he can love anybody he wants. He ends the book by saying, “Raphael loves Jerome. I can say it. It’s easy.” According to our textbook, Children’s Books in Children’s Hands, this powerful lesson learned is a strength of this children’s literature piece (p. 8).
I would recommend this book to elementary-aged students (students aged 5-8). The work can be interpreted differently by readers. Some readers can take the perspective that these boys are simply two close friends. On the contrary, some implied readers may perceive a deeper meaning in working through, accepting, and expressing difficult feelings about sexual orientation. One potential classroom use would be to talk about friendship. Students could identify and draw pictures about what it takes to make a friend or even positive qualities to look for in friendships.
I accessed the printed book version. The words and illustrations were powerful and made for a very intimate book. There was so much to be discovered with rereading!
May 2, 2019
Poetic enough for an adult, direct enough for a child. And I shed maybe one tear.
October 7, 2019
This book is amazing! It is about a little boy called Jerome who loves his best friend. Society isn't ready to accept that boys can hold hands and some boys don't want to play football. This could be used in two different ways, either for LGBT or for masculinity. My favourite line in the book was 'Jerome doesn't play soccer, but that doesn't mean that he isn't strong'. This line really put this into perspective for me that a lot of boys are made to feel like they have to do only do 'manly' things were as they can do whatever they want to! I also loved how when the character was feeling down the illustrations were dark and blue. I also loved the word ransacked that the author used.
February 13, 2020
A story of friendship between Raphael and his friend Jerome, who he loves.
July 31, 2020
I'm so glad Susan recommended this to me. File under: picture books to weep happy tears over.
February 16, 2018
I love the way this book faces the honest truth that boys can be friends and that sometimes their adults struggle to come to terms with that fact. Without getting into sexuality, it is a sweet story of friendship between two boys.
November 12, 2020
Jerome by heart is a story about childhood friendship from the perspective of Raphael.
Raphael and Jerome have an intense relationship and are best friend who do everything together. Raphael really admires and idolises Jerome who seems to be slightly older and more self-assures in himself and the world as he often sticks up for Raphael and makes sure he’s okay.
However, Raphael’s parents aren’t too keen on the relationship between their son and Jerome and don’t like him speaking about Jerome all the time. This I found such a shame as if it was two girls who were best friend this intensely I don’t think it would of been looked down upon and therefore I think this would be a great book to use in the class to show that boys can be best friends this intensely, just like girls, and that it is okay to be.
Raphael and Jerome have an intense relationship and are best friend who do everything together. Raphael really admires and idolises Jerome who seems to be slightly older and more self-assures in himself and the world as he often sticks up for Raphael and makes sure he’s okay.
However, Raphael’s parents aren’t too keen on the relationship between their son and Jerome and don’t like him speaking about Jerome all the time. This I found such a shame as if it was two girls who were best friend this intensely I don’t think it would of been looked down upon and therefore I think this would be a great book to use in the class to show that boys can be best friends this intensely, just like girls, and that it is okay to be.
June 30, 2018
This beautiful, heartfelt picture book shows the incredible joy of having a true childhood friend. In this book, Raphael loves his best friend Jerome. He’s a friend who isn’t afraid to hold hands, picks Raphael as his partner at school, shares his snacks, and defends Raphael if anyone picks on him. When Raphael’s parents react rather rudely when he expresses his admiration and adoration of Jerome, Raphael heads to his room. There he looks for a great gift for Jerome, until he is distracted thinking about adventures that he and Jerome can have together. Because they will!
A French import, this picture book is childhood captured on the page. There is a merriment to the boys’ time together and an innocence inherent in the way they treat one another. And yet Raphael has beautifully concrete reasons that he loves Jerome and it’s all about how well he is treated and how Jerome makes him feel inside. The parents’ reaction may echo some of the reactions of adult readers who may wonder if there is more connection between the boys than just friends. That is neatly put in its place as Raphael heads off to be with his friend regardless of what that friendship may eventually mean for them.
Tallec’s illustrations are as masterful as ever. The pairing of the two boys is depicted with solid connections between the two of them. They have a lovely playfulness about them that capture the friendship of the boys and mimics the merriment that the boys feel when together. A delicate and touching story of friendship. Appropriate for ages 3-5.
A French import, this picture book is childhood captured on the page. There is a merriment to the boys’ time together and an innocence inherent in the way they treat one another. And yet Raphael has beautifully concrete reasons that he loves Jerome and it’s all about how well he is treated and how Jerome makes him feel inside. The parents’ reaction may echo some of the reactions of adult readers who may wonder if there is more connection between the boys than just friends. That is neatly put in its place as Raphael heads off to be with his friend regardless of what that friendship may eventually mean for them.
Tallec’s illustrations are as masterful as ever. The pairing of the two boys is depicted with solid connections between the two of them. They have a lovely playfulness about them that capture the friendship of the boys and mimics the merriment that the boys feel when together. A delicate and touching story of friendship. Appropriate for ages 3-5.
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