Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
At the local shelter's "Monster Adoption Special," Shelly falls for Hugsby, a pink, plump creature with tiny fins for ears. Though Hugsby can bake cookies and draw pictures, he doesn't have any flashy talents in his repertoire--he's even a bust at blowing bubbles. Shelly insists that she loves him "anyway," but she worries he'll be outshone at her school's Pet Monster Show-and-Tell Day. Sure enough, other kids' monsters have talents that include magic tricks and triple backflips. But Hugsby proves he has his own level of star power when he eagerly dispenses "the best hugs" to the entire class. Debut author-illustrator Phumiruk's story has a leak or two: surely baking cookies is a skill--in fact, one kid brings an "invisible monster who bakes." But Phumiruk shows lots of promise, especially in her spot illustrations--even her endpaper images are funny and rich in character. And Shelly's deeper appreciation for Hugsby's capacity to be loyal, patient, loving, and kind is no small thing. Ages 3--7. Agent: Deborah Warren, East/West Literary. (Nov.)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 2--One day, a little girl named Shelly brings home a new friend from the monster adoption center: a smiley, pink axolotl-like monster named Hugsby. Hugsby may not be able to do lots of tricks like some monsters, but there's one thing he does really well--gives excellent hugs! Shelly, who has pale skin and dark hair, loves spending time and playing games with Hugsby. They love each other "MONSTER-ously," and that's all that matters. But soon it's time for Pet Monster Show-and-Tell Day at school. As Shelly watches the other children's monsters do tricks and feats that Hugsby couldn't learn, she grows anxious about what they'll think of her monster. Hugsby and Shelly demonstrate valuable lessons about what really matters and how peer pressure can cause us to judge ourselves and those we care about unfairly. The perfect accompaniment to this gentle story, Phumiruk's sweet, pastel-toned illustrations are full of fun details and adorable monsters that young readers will enjoy poring over, even down to the endpapers. VERDICT This charming read-aloud is an especially strong recommendation to those seeking titles that foster conversations about perfectionism, acceptance, and self-worth.--Darla Salva Cruz, Suffolk Cooperative Lib. Syst., Bellport, NY
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
A tender story of the bond between a girl and her pet monster. Shelly's pet monster, Hugsby, is her best friend. Each day Hugsby greets Shelly with a hug after she returns from school. When Shelly's school announces a Pet Monster Show-and-Tell Day, she becomes determined to teach Hugsby a new trick. Hugsby makes several earnest attempts to learn something new, including juggling and dancing. Shelly remains patient throughout this process, despite Hugsby's lack of success, and tells him she loves him anyway. On the big day, Shelly is intimidated by her classmates' pet monsters and their many talents. She starts to introduce Hugsby but is nervous until he envelops her in one of his trademark hugs, a return of the unconditional love and support she's always given him. This tale is a gentle reminder about accepting others for who they are and of the value of quiet strengths like compassion. Shelly's anxiety about Hugsby's absence of talent provides a mirror for children who may feel insecure about their own status. Rendered in a soothing color palette of soft pastels, the illustrations reinforce that warmth and kindness are at the heart of this story. Shelly is cued Asian with pale skin and black hair; her classmates are a diverse group with different skin tones and hair textures. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10.5-by-17-inch double-page spreads viewed at 62% of actual size.) Comforting and sincere, like every good hug. (Picture book. 3-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
