Mama, Do You Love Me? By Barbara M. Joosse, illustrated by Barbara Lavallee

Barbara M. Joosse tells the story of a child who persistently tests the limits of her mother’s love and her affection toward her. Mama, Do You Love Me highlights the importance and strength of a mother-child bond that is common in all countries of the world. While the book portrays a Native American maternal relationship, this story can relate to any mother and child; whether from Arizona or Zimbabwe or anywhere in between and demonstrates how this bond can withstand even the most frightening, surprising and irritating situations.
    I came across this book as I was browsing through the shelves at the CMC last semester. I remember how the title caught my eye so I decided to take it from the shelf and have a look inside. I fell in love with the story instantly. I think the title appealed to me because I often ask my mother the very same question- in a humorous, joking way. I like to hear from her that no matter what, she loves me just the same. I believe that most children crave to hear that their mother’s affection is unconditional and ever-lasting- it gives a sense of comfort to know that no matter what happens, in the end there is still love.
    Because the book is centred around the Native American culture, I feel a certain connection to it as a Canadian citizen. I think that most Canadians can agree that even though one may not be related personally to the Native American history, there is an overall feeling of respect and connection. I liked the fact that the story brought out that feeling for me and reminded me of the similarities present among us as human beings.    
    The images of the book illustrate the mother’s feelings of affection toward her young daughter; on almost every page there are images of the mother hugging, kissing, helping and caring for her daughter. Also, the artwork is similar to many Native American pieces of art and involve many objects common in indigenous culture. Through the story I found myself imagining what my own bond with my mother would look like if portrayed through a picture book. For example, instead of “what if I carried our [ptarmigan] eggs… and the eggs broke?”, my version might have been “what if I carried our special glass dish… and the dish broke?”, the response to the question would be the same “I would be sorry. But still, I would love you.” I imagine that the mother and daughter connection illustrated through Mama, Do You Love Me? is applicable to maternal relationships around the world. I know that no matter what has happened, no matter what time of day or night, and no matter where I am, I can call my mom if I need to and she will stay on the phone with me until I feel better. I can totally related to the little girl and her need to hear that her mother’s love is ever-present and unconditional.
    Overall the book filled me with feelings of warmth and gratitude. It made me think about my own relationship with my mother and the possible relationships I will have with my own children. I want my children to know just how much I love them and that I will care for them more than anything in the world, just as the mother in the book does. I felt gratitude because I have such an amazing bond with my Mom; I wish for everyone to have that great connection in their lives.

Mom and me out for a walk in the park :)

    I loved the story so much that I have already decided that when I have children (now mind you.. I hope that’s not for another 10 years) I want to receive it as a gift for my first mother’s day.