Hug Me
Age 3+
Picture Books
In her debut picture book, Simona Ciraola creates an endearing tale of friendship, beautifully illustrated with buoyant wit and the perfect story to share.
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.
Creators
Simona Ciraolo is a Sardinian born author and illustrator whose witty and endearing tales recently won her the Sebastian Walker Award. Ciraolo studied animation at the National Film School in Turin, Italy, before moving to the UK where she undertook an MA in Children’s Book Illustration at the Cambridge School of Art. She has also worked as a freelance 2D animator for children’s TV shows and illustrated five picture books for an independent Italian publisher. Simona lives in London.
Reviews
This is a beautiful story about how it feels to be different and how making new friends isn’t always easy.
Ivy's Library
This is one of the loveliest and heart-warming stories around, with gorgeous illustrations to boot. A wonderful picture book that deserves a spot on your bookshelves.
Book Trust
Hug Me’s heartwarming plot, stunning visuals and genuinely funny cacti- based humour will leave you crossing your fingers, hoping that it becomes your child’s favourite book so that you have an excuse to read it over and over again.
Creative Safari
Hug Me is a lovely publication with a message about finding like-minded people and being yourself even when you don’t fit in. A fun book to read aloud and explore illustrations with children.
Kids Book Review
