Hugs are (not) for everybody

In this second picture-book collaboration, Russell and Lugo teach children the importance of respecting differences and celebrating individuality. At a birthday party (theme: magical!), a group of costumed children gathers to celebrate. A merperson, a fairy, a unicorn, a wizard, and a dragon are all in attendance, and a young magician makes her way around the room to greet everyone. The manner in which each partygoer expresses their joy varies. Some children prefer to hug, while others prefer a wave or a high five or suggest that "a secret birthday handshake would be fun!" The book gently reminds children that they can set boundaries: "So on special days and not-so-special days, when a hug (or magic) just won't do, remember that there are many ways to say hello! . . . And all we have to do is ask." Warm multimedia illustrations favor shades of pink and teal. Gender-neutral language and validation that there are no right or wrong ways to celebrate make this a buoyant, welcoming read with an important message about consent.

A child learns a lesson in bodily autonomy at a costume party. Several friends gather to celebrate a birthday. A child dressed as a magician offers the others hugs. Some happily accept, but three kids make it clear that they prefer waving, high-fiving, or exchanging secret handshakes instead. The would-be hugger makes mistakes along the way--initially assuming some children will welcome an embrace--but is given multiple opportunities to learn amid this loving, supportive environment. Together, the kids decide on the best way to end their secret handshake--with birthday cake, of course--and the book concludes with a sound message of consent: "All we have to do is ask." Important concepts are presented in simple, exuberant language, with just a few words per page, making this a strong read-aloud option for young children. The full-color images are dominated by pink, teal, and gold, setting a delightfully festive air; a cat, a rabbit, and a mouse appear on most pages--fun easter eggs that kids will enjoy pointing out. Fans of fantasy creatures will appreciate the costumes, which include a fairy, a mermaid, a unicorn, and a dragon. The children are diverse in skin tone and hair texture; one youngster uses a wheelchair. A sweet, simple introduction to consent.(Picture book. 3-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.