Fuse 8 n’ Kate: Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli, ill. Paul Yalowitz

You know, for as long as this podcast has been going on, we have never attempted to find a classic Valentine’s Day book. It’s a tricky proposition. We’ve done some pseudo-appropriate books like The Pigs’ Wedding and The Marzipan Pig. I thought maybe we should try something love-related that is not hog-related. “It’s about a human and it’s about love . . . and he’s balding. Three for three.” This is a book that allows us to question what love truly is. Is love when people only appreciate you for what you can do for them? Or is it something more? Come join us for a journey through cheese and mustard sandwiches and brownies (not together). Stay, if only to hear how Kate reads the line, “I do believe somebody loves me after all,” (I adore how she does it).

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Show Notes:

He’s a real nowhere man, Mr. Hatch. Now tell us truly, does this wallpaper feature worms or shoelaces? Your call.

Kate doesn’t point it out, but I found I had a real Chris Ware-esque love for this detail in the staff lunchroom. Here are two shots. My question? Who the heck is Eric?

It’s the little things that count. Like the tiny detail of different phases of the moon on Mr. Hatch’s bedspread.

Which piece would you eat first? I’d go for the chocolate heart at the bottom, myself.

Honey, this is 100% on you. No one needs a leash that long for a ten-pound dog. But we do like your shoes.

Never settle for old Ditz, kids. “All new Ditz! (Now with more Ditz!)”.

I’ve entitled this little picture “Nightmare Fuel”. I know it’s touching, but these smiles that the children remember? They. Are. TERRIFYING!!

Many thanks to Tony for this particular recommendation:

A fan of lonely old man picture books? Check out this year’s remarkable Swedish import The Tale of the Tiny Man, which utterly charmed me:

Interested in Aaron Becker’s trailer for his latest board book? Look here.

Kate Recommends: The audiobook of As You Wish by Cary Elwes

Betsy Recommends: The recent article in the New Yorker, Eat Prey Love about Felix Salten the author of Bambi.

Filed under: Fuse 8 n' Kate