One Hug

PreS–A family wakes up and prepares for the arrival of their relatives from afar. The simple rhyming text describes the many ways loved ones may hug, and the full-bleed illustrations tell a deeper story. For example, the first spread says simply “One hug,” but the mother and son pointing to the airplane out the window hints at the anticipation of an impending arrival. As the relatives arrive, and the family prepares a summer picnic celebration together, the mix of American and Asian foods eaten with chopsticks also hint that their extended family are visiting from far away. “Some hugs wait for years and years. Some hugs cradle falling tears.” Although the text focuses on different kinds of hugs, the overall story manages to dig deeper into the many facets of love, affection, and what makes a family.