Hug Me

Title: Hug Me

Author: Simona Ciraolo

Published: September 16th, 2014

Pages: 32 Pages

Genre: Children’s Fiction, Children’s Picture Book

Publisher: Flying Eye Books

Checked out at Parker, Colorado Library

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Goodreads Description

Ever feel like you need a hug, a really big hug from someone? That’s how Felipe the young cactus feels, but his family just isn’t the touchy-feely kind. Cactuses can be quite prickly sometimes you know . . . and so can Felipe. But he’ll be darned if this one pointy issue will hold him back, so one day Felipe sets off on his own to find a friend and just maybe, that long awaited hug.

In her debut picture book, Simona Ciraola creates an endearing tale of friendship, beautifully illustrated with buoyant wit and the perfect story to share.

Mrs Birds Words Review

It’s not always easy to express what we need to fulfill our emotional needs. It’s even more frustrating when you have built up the courage to vocalize them and they are not met. This story was absolutely adorable and it’s not just because I have a thing for cacti after spending a few years in Arizona. What drew me to this book initially, was the cover. The art in this book is very well done and made every page enjoyable. Hug Me illustrated to the reader how to handle the need for physical affection and a friend. I loved the premise and outcome of this Children’s Book. I felt the overall message was, no matter who you are or what you look like, there is a friend out there waiting for you. You might feel alone at some point, but the point will end.

Things I Enjoyed

As I mentioned above, I felt the overall theme for this book was perfect. One every child should read and start to understand. Emotions are not an easy thing to master, and this book was a good start. The art was captivating for the reader and allowed the story to flow. I won’t give away the ending, but my mom heart was bursting. I was able to talk to my 2 year old about friendship and how to be accepting of others differences.

Things I didn’t Enjoy

There was only thing that I would change. I did feel like the ending was abrupt, I wish they would have elaborated the new friendship a little more.

Overall

This book deserves all five feathers! It was able to keep my attention and my toddlers, which is not an easy task. I would defiantly check this book out from the library, it is one I would also consider purchasing. Snuggle up on the couch with your child and enjoy a fun read! Use this book as an opportunity to talk to your child and see what they learned from it, and then guide them a little bit. After you have read it, let me know what you think!