Ollie's hug

PreS-Gr 1--Dunrea has done it again with his adorable goslings. The main character is introduced in a humorous and totally relatable way. "This is Ollie. He is in a mood. Nothing feels right!" Many of Ollie's gosling friends have very smart suggestions for how to cure the mood he is in, such as having quiet time, going exploring, or playing ball, but despite his efforts, nothing feels right. Finally, Ollie's friend Gossie knows exactly what he needs--a big hug! The illustrations are colorful pastels centered on a white background. Children will love the personality differences each gosling portrays. At the end of this gentle book, the 12 goslings are featured on their own in small ovals with their name and what makes them unique, such as "Peedie, sometimes forgets things." Kindness and empathy prevail in this very sweet beginner picture book. VERDICT A perfect purchase for all libraries wishing to instill compassion in young minds and on little hearts.--Tracy Cronce

Gosling Ollie (Ollie the Stomper) is feeling out of sorts, and "Nothing feels right!" One by one, his friends kindly offer help. Does he want to wear Gertie's boots or play with Peedie's ball or go exploring with Gemma? Ollie patiently refuses each offering ("Ollie would rather stomp alone... / Ollie isn't hungry") until Gideon innocently suggests some quiet time. And with that, Ollie has reached his limit: "Ollie wants to be loud!" Dunrea's spot-on illustration shows our frustrated gosling yelling, beak wide open. Cue Gossie, who now knows exactly what Ollie needs: a hug. Just right for toddler attention spans and well-aimed at little ones learning to identify emotions and get their needs met, this board book is a soothing story for trying times. Get your hugs here. Jennifer M. Brabander May/June 2022 p.119(c) Copyright 2022. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.