Can I Give You a Squish?

PreS-K–Friendship can be complicated; sometimes, even the best intentions lead to undesired outcomes. Kai is a little merboy who loves giving squishes (hugs) to everyone and everything. One day, he travels around his undersea home and gives squishes to some kelp, a rock, some buried treasure, and one big group squish to his friends. But when he gets ready to give a squish to the puffer fish, instead of being friendly, the puffer fish becomes scared and upset. Together, Kai and his friends ponder other ways to greet the puffer fish. When a new greeting makes the puffer fish happy, it inspires the others to discuss their favorite alternatives to squishes, too. This book’s simple message is powerful. The illustrations are well-designed, colorful, and richly detailed; all kinds of friendly sea creatures reside in Kai’s world. The length of the text is perfect for young students who are learning about friendship and the idea that what is appropriate for one person may not be so for another. As readers observe the many greetings Kai and his friends share, they will no doubt be inspired to try these greetings and create others of their own.