Book excerpt: There are plenty of favorite things out there, but what if that “favorite thing” is always ... you? In the morning, you are the wonderful, happy thing. You remind people of sunrises, cuddly animals at the zoo, flowers, and even amusement park rides. As long as you’re around, every vacation is the best. You’re like a fairy tale; you make things magic! “You’re my favorite everything” is a phrase author J. J. Allen has said to her children and grandchildren every day. After years of using endearing quips to find different ways to express her love, she wanted to share her words with parents. She encourages verbalization of emotions to loved ones with sweet phrases and kind expressions. Kind words have a remarkable effect on self-confidence, so it’s important to tell the ones we love just how special they are. From exchanging laughs and dreams to going on adventures and telling stories, You’re My Favorite Everything will strike a chord for readers, parents, and children alike. By loving each other, we make the world a better place and make each other better members of the human race! “Lines and images from some books are so special they remain fixed in our memories for a long time, years and even decades after the children who were read these stories are grown and have children of their own. J.J. Allen’s “You’re My Favorite Everything” promises to be one of those special books, written with soft, comforting language that brings the reader and listener joy, and confidence that things are all right. Children who hear this book will probably be reciting it by memory to their own children years in the future.” Glenn Adams Freelance writer Retired Associated Press Writer