Hugo the Huggy Bug
Hugo the Huggy Bug
A rhyming picture book about friendship and body boundaries, ages 3–7
Meet Hugo, the happiest bug, who loves sharing smiles and tiny, warm hugs with everyone: flowers, trees and even cuddly bees!
But when Hugo meets Johnny Snail, Mae the Ladybug and Frank the Frog, he learns that not everyone is ready for a hug.
A gentle story about respect, asking first, and friendships that grow without overwhelming others.
Written by Barbara Pinke, illustrated by Orsolya Orban.
Hugs, with a question first
A story about consent, respect and kindness
What kids take away
- Hugs are lovely, but not everyone wants one all the time.
- It’s kind to ask before you hug.
- “No, thank you” is okay to say, and okay to hear.
- There are many ways to show you care: a wave, a smile, a high five.
- Respecting others helps friendships grow.
Read it together: 3 questions to ask
- How do you like to say hello to your friends?
- How did Hugo know his friends didn’t want a hug?
- What could we do instead of a hug?
What parents say
Parents and teachers say Hugo makes body boundaries easy to talk about with little ones, in a sweet, gentle way, and that kids love the cute illustrations.
Book details
- Ages 3–7, rhyming picture book
- Written by Barbara Pinke, illustrated by Orsolya Orban
- Pages: 39
- ISBN: 978-3949736605 (paperback)
- Editions: Paperback, hardcover and Kindle