While we can't hug

K-Gr 2--What perfect timing for this topic, in an era in which hugging is rare (COVID-19) and conversations about respecting personal space and boundaries are gaining traction. In a sequel to The Hug, Hedgehog and Turtle, who are the best of friends, are separated by more than their quills and shell. For unstated reasons, they are not allowed to touch at this time. Wise Owl reassures them that there are many ways to show someone love and friendship. The friends experiment with different messages, beginning with a wave and a smile. They blow kisses, exchange funny faces and letters, and share art, dancing, and music. Ultimately, they both know that they are loved. Illustrations in ink and soft watercolors depict each character against creamy colored backgrounds, with a shade variance on each double-page spread to demarcate the separation. VERDICT The timeliness of this sweet, understated story cannot be overstated. Recommended.--Jessica Marie, Salem P.L., OR

The two creatures who fulfilled each other's yearning for physical contact in The Hug (2019) find alternative ways to connect in a time of social distancing. Blushing and smiling and looking every bit as sweet as they did in their original meet-cute, Hedgehog and Tortoise respond to Owl's reassurance that "there are lots of ways to show someone you love them" by standing on opposing pages and sending signals, letters, dances, air kisses, and songs across the gutter. Demonstrating their mutual love and friendship, they regard each other fondly across the gap through sun and storm, finally gesturing air hugs beneath a rainbow of colors and stars. "They could not touch. / They could not hug. // But they both knew / that they were loved." In line with the minimalist narrative and illustrations there is no mention of the enforced separation's cause nor, aside from the titular conjunction, any hint of its possible duration. Still, its core affirmation is delivered in a simple, direct, unmistakable way, and if the thematic connection with the previous outing seems made to order for a marketing opportunity, it does address a widespread emotional need in young (and maybe not so young) audiences. (This book was reviewed digitally with 9.8-by-19.6-inch double-page spreads viewed at 78% of actual size.) Precious--but timely and comforting all the same. (Picture book. 5-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.