One More Hug

August 1, 2019
The reassurance of "one more hug" allows a little boy to take on fears, new challenges, and responsibilities as he grows into an older boy, adolescent, and finally young man. Graceful gouache paintings delineate a child's progress, from coping with the fear of a storm and a broken toy through the first time on a school bus, growing older and learning to climb a tree, ride a bike, play soccer, training with the track team, and, ultimately, driving away to life on his own. All the while, Mama is there to provide support and love, always with a special hug. Related in the past tense by Mama, the narrative reflects a nostalgic remembrance yet conveys the constant unbreakable bond between mother and child. "But even though you were older, you were still my boy. And you asked for... // one more hug before your big performance." In a final sentimental reflection, Mama wonders if her now-adult son understands her pride and love for him and is happily rewarded with a surprise visit and "one more hug." Children will enjoy reviewing the relatable illustrations of a growing child's activities; however, it's parents who will undoubtedly identify with the emotions. According to the author's note, the intent is to assure parents that sons should be allowed to express their feelings. Both Mama and son are white. Less pathological than Love You Forever but aimed at the same audience. (Picture book. 5-10)

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August 19, 2019
TV personality Alexander makes her children’s book debut with a story about a parent’s bottomless reserves of love for a child. The mother of a bumptious boy watches him grow and become increasingly self-assured and independent, part of a bigger world of friends and school. Along the way, a little extra reassurance from his mother—“one more” hug, kiss, or squeeze—makes all the difference in uncertain moments. Time flies (“and before long” is a recurring phrase here), and the child goes from outgrowing his superhero pajamas to riding his bike “without any help” to driving off in a packed-up car. Mom is allowed some wistful gazes as she steps away from the center of her son’s life, and even a soupçon of self-pity (“If you knew how proud you made me... if you knew you were still my boy, now and forever”). Airy, buoyant gouache illustrations by Nakata (Not That Tutu!) record the moments, large and small, of the relationship, and readers of all ages will be heartened to see how the creators bring it all home, literally and figuratively, at the end. Ages 4–8.