I recently read Heartman by Stephen Hogtun and it truly deserves 5 stars from me. It’s a beautiful, heartfelt story about a dad whose real superpower is love. Through something as simple as helping his son fix his bike, the book shows what really matters — being present, caring, and supportive. As a dad to two young boys myself, this story really resonated with me. It’s been such a joy reading it with them, and it’s one of those books that quietly stays with you long after you’ve finished. In a world that often feels focused on material things and appearances, Heartman is a refreshing reminder that love is the strongest force of all. A truly lovely book that I’d recommend to any parent

" Dad is Heartman and he never runs out of love" In a world where caring and love seems to have a lower currency than success and power, Heartman is. wonderfully beautiful story for young readers and listeners. Dad doesn't have superpowers- he doesn't have a great strength ; he isn't making everyone laugh; he doesn't impress with technology. Or does he? Dad battles against The Bills and the Great Big Mortgage. and when you take a tumble on your bike, who is the one to come and rescue you? Dad with his big heart and love. Award-winning Stephen Hogtun once again shows how he can tap in to our emotions through humour and deeper feelings of sadness and love. With beautiful illustrations and a wonderful pitch perfect text for under 7s, this is another winner. Showing that the power of love and caring is the mightiest, this will tap into the lives of many young children especially when young boys often are continually bombarded with images of power and aggression being the solution to problem-solving. A perfect bedtime read, class story or a lovely read-along storybook. Highly recommended for 3-7 year olds - EYS classes and KS1 and also for adults too. Thank you to DK Children for the advance copy

Children’s picture book. Dad’s should play an important part in a child’s life. So as that, there is something to recommend this book. The story is nicely laid out in text and pictures. About life’s pressures meaning we aren’t always there, but being there when it really counts. Other thoughts. As a Dad/guy I looked at the first few pages that suggested Dad isn’t around because he does the 9 to 5/pays the bills/pays the mortgage. I considered is this true or just a Dad stereotype - that Dad does these things/would mums be upset with this suggestion? I decided while it isn’t only Dads that do this, this book is about a Dad’s place in a child’s life. So it’s okay. Maybe the author wants to consider a matching book can mum save the day. Thank you to DK and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.