Guess How Much I Love You
A little hare and a big hare try to outdo each other in saying how much they love one another.
Guess How Much I Love You is a bedtime picture book by Sam McBratney, illustrated by Anita Jeram, first published in 1994. It is number 19 in our list of the best children’s books of all time. A little hare and a big hare try to outdo each other in saying how much they love one another.
What is Guess How Much I Love You about?
At bedtime, Little Nutbrown Hare tries to show Big Nutbrown Hare how much he loves him, by stretching his arms wide, hopping high and reaching up. Big Nutbrown Hare can always go a little further.
It was published in 1994 by Walker Books and illustrated by Anita Jeram. The author, Sam McBratney, was born in Belfast.
Book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | Sam McBratney |
| Illustrator | Anita Jeram |
| First published | 1994 |
| Type | Bedtime picture book |
| Age guide | 0 to 4 |
Why children enjoy Guess How Much I Love You
- A sweet, simple way to say “I love you”.
- Actions to copy as you read.
- A gentle ending that is perfect for bedtime.
Reading and talking tips
- Stretch your arms wide and hop like the hares as you read.
- Ask: how much do you love me? Show me!
- Read it last, with the lights low.
An Irish connection
Sam McBratney was born in Belfast. Find more in our guide to Irish children’s authors.
About Sam McBratney
Sam McBratney was born on 1 March 1943 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and died on 18 September 2020 at the age of 77. He earned a history degree at Trinity College Dublin and taught in primary and secondary schools from 1970 to 1990, when he took early retirement to write full time.
Read more on our Sam McBratney author page.
If your child likes this, try…
See all 20 in our best children’s books of all time.
Frequently asked questions
What age is Guess How Much I Love You for?
It suits babies and children up to about 4.
Is Sam McBratney Irish?
He was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1943, and was a teacher before becoming a full-time writer.
Where can I borrow Guess How Much I Love You?
Most public libraries stock it. See our guide to children’s books and your local library.