Hug Me, Please!

This award-winning Polish picture book combines stunning illustrations with the simple story of Daddy Bear and Little Bear who spend a happy day walking through the forest dispensing hugs to all the creatures they meet.  The startled recipients include Mr Beaver, Miss Weasel, the Big Bad Wolf, Ms Anaconda and even a hunter.  The two bears finally realise that the only creatures left un-hugged are themselves.

This is a slight, feel-good story, although not all of the animals look as though they want to be hugged by a bear, and the beautiful, detailed and expressive illustrations compensate for the lack of plot.  The intricate forest setting effectively fills the double page spreads, the characters’ eyes and body language are very expressive and the inventive ways in which the differing sizes of the characters are presented adds to the humour.  The opening illustration of the sun brushing its teeth is both a delight and a fitting beginning to this eye-catching translated picture book.