Book Review: I Wish You More
A Heartfelt Journey of Wishes: A Comprehensive Review of I Wish You More by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Introduction: A Book That Feels Like a Hug
Have you ever read a book that feels like a warm embrace? I Wish You More by Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of those rare gems—a tender, poetic picture book that transcends age and speaks directly to the heart. Whether you’re a parent reading to a child, a teacher sharing wisdom, or an adult seeking a moment of quiet reflection, this book delivers profound simplicity in the most beautiful way.
Rosenthal, known for her ability to distill complex emotions into accessible, lyrical prose, crafts a book that isn’t just about wishes—it’s about love, hope, and the quiet blessings we often overlook. Illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld, the visuals complement the text perfectly, making it a feast for both the eyes and the soul.
In this review, we’ll explore the book’s structure, themes, emotional impact, and why it stands out in the crowded world of children’s literature.
Plot Summary: A Simple Yet Profound Collection of Wishes
I Wish You More doesn’t follow a traditional narrative—instead, it’s a series of heartfelt wishes expressed in gentle, rhythmic language. Each page offers a new blessing, such as:
- “I wish you more ups than downs.”
- “I wish you more give than take.”
- “I wish you more hugs than ughs.”
The book’s brilliance lies in its simplicity. There’s no plot twist or dramatic climax—just a steady, comforting stream of affirmations that encourage gratitude and optimism. The illustrations depict children and adults experiencing these wishes in everyday moments, reinforcing the idea that joy is found in the little things.
Character Analysis & Development: Universal and Relatable
Since I Wish You More isn’t character-driven in the traditional sense, its “characters” are more symbolic. The children and adults in the illustrations represent universal experiences—playing, learning, failing, and succeeding.
What makes this book special is how it subtly encourages emotional intelligence. The wishes aren’t just about happiness; they acknowledge life’s inevitable struggles (“more we than me”) and the importance of resilience (“more can than knot”). The lack of specific characters actually strengthens the book’s message—these wishes could be for anyone, making it deeply personal for every reader.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Poetry in Motion
Rosenthal’s writing is deceptively simple. Each line is carefully crafted to balance rhythm, meaning, and emotional weight. The book reads like a lyrical blessing, almost like a secular prayer or a parent’s whispered hopes for their child.
The structure is repetitive yet never monotonous—each wish builds on the last, creating a cumulative effect of warmth and reassurance. The brevity of the text makes it accessible for young readers while leaving room for deeper interpretation by adults.
Tom Lichtenheld’s illustrations enhance the words beautifully. His soft, expressive drawings add layers of meaning—like a child flying a kite (“more ups than downs”) or friends sharing an umbrella (“more give than take”). The visuals are playful yet poignant, reinforcing the book’s emotional core.
Thematic Exploration: More Than Just a Children’s Book
At its core, I Wish You More is about:
- Gratitude & Optimism – The book encourages readers to focus on life’s positives, even in small doses.
- Resilience & Growth – Wishes like “more can than knot” subtly teach perseverance.
- Connection & Kindness – Themes of sharing (“more we than me”) and empathy shine throughout.
What’s remarkable is how the book avoids being preachy. It doesn’t tell readers how to feel—it simply offers gentle nudges toward kindness and joy.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Stays With You
I first read I Wish You More on a particularly stressful day, and within minutes, I felt lighter. There’s something magical about how Rosenthal’s words cut through noise and speak directly to the heart.
As a parent, I’ve read it to my child at bedtime, and each time, we find a new layer of meaning. My son now asks, “What do you wish for me today?”—proof of how the book sparks meaningful conversations.
It’s also a perfect gift book—for graduations, baby showers, or just because. The universality of its message makes it timeless.
Comparison to Other Works in the Genre
If you love books like:
- The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin
- Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
- Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss
…then I Wish You More will resonate with you. However, Rosenthal’s book stands out for its minimalist yet profound approach. Where some books rely on elaborate storytelling, I Wish You More distills wisdom into bite-sized, poetic truths.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✅ Timeless & Universal – Appeals to all ages.
✅ Beautiful Simplicity – No fluff, just pure emotional resonance.
✅ Stunning Illustrations – Lichtenheld’s art elevates the text.
✅ Conversation Starter – Great for discussing emotions with kids.
Minor Weaknesses:
❌ Not Plot-Driven – If you prefer narrative structure, this might feel too abstract.
❌ Very Short – Some may wish for more content (ironically fitting the title!).
Target Audience: Who Should Read This?
- Parents & Caregivers – A beautiful bedtime read.
- Teachers & Counselors – Useful for emotional learning.
- Graduates & New Parents – Makes a heartfelt gift.
- Adults Needing Comfort – A quick but powerful mood-lifter.
Memorable Quotes
A few lines that linger:
- “I wish you more tippy-toes than deep.”
- “I wish you more treasures than pockets.”
- “I wish you more stories than stars.”
Each one is a tiny masterpiece.
Cultural & Historical Context
Published in 2015, I Wish You More arrived at a time when mindfulness and emotional well-being were gaining cultural traction. Its emphasis on gratitude and connection feels especially relevant in today’s fast-paced, often disconnected world.
Final Thoughts: A Book to Return to Again and Again
I Wish You More is more than a children’s book—it’s a meditation on love, hope, and the quiet joys of life. Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s words, paired with Tom Lichtenheld’s art, create something truly special: a book that feels like a whispered blessing.
Whether you’re buying it for a child, a friend, or yourself, this is a book that stays with you long after the last page.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- Which wish resonated with you the most?
- How do you interpret “more can than knot”?
- Who would you gift this book to, and why?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how this book touched you!
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