“Affirms the joy of hugs while highlighting the importance of consent.” –Kirkus Reviews
Motivational speaker, disability advocate, and restaurateur Tim Harris’ debut picture book, Book of Hugs, publishes this September. Inspired by Tim’s love of giving big bear hugs and his restaurant that offered up hugs on the menu, this charming how-to guide inspires readers with plenty of reasons to give someone a big hug!
Colorful characters Teddy Bear Tim and his trio of energetic monkey friends share tips on delivering the very best hugs – no matter whether they are happy hugs, sad hugs, fast or slow hugs. Every type of hug is about sharing love. As the book says, “Love is the most important part!”
In our new world of pandemic etiquette and a post #MeToo era, setting and respecting boundaries and gaining consent are among the most important practices we can instill in children. Book of Hugs is an entertaining story that can lead into deeper discussions about permission and new norms.
My Review:
Since childhood, I have struggled with hugging others. If I was close with the person, eventually they would be comfortable; however, I didn't freely give them. At family reunions and get-togethers, I remember being told to give hugs to people who were practically strangers. It was never a comfortable feeling.
When I had children of my own, I made a commitment that I would never force them to hug people. It is a personal, boundary limit and one that we should all get to decide for ourselves. I fully believe that our bodies can feel the energy and vibes from people. Perhaps my own children inherited this from me. More often than not, we haven't been too far off the mark with that ability.
A book like this is extremely important for children to learn that everyone has their own boundaries and limits. The beautiful illustrations, along with the story, offer parents and caregivers to explain an important topic to children in a way they can understand.
Buy the Book!
About the author: Tim Harris
Tim Harris is a motivational speaker, business owner, and disability advocate. He is really good at giving hugs. For a long time, Tim owned his own restaurant and he even had free hugs on the menu. They were so popular that Tim has now hugged over 75,000 people, including the president of the United States! Tim really does love hugs, mostly because he loves LOVE and that is what hugs are all about. This is Tim’s first children’s book.
About the illustrator: Charlie Astrella
Chalrie Astrella graduated from the University of Teesside with a First Class Honors Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Animation. He now works in 3D modeling, animation, and 2D illustration to create works of art he is proud of. He has experience in advertising, product design, video games, and children’s books.
Upcoming National Hug Day and Hug-a-thon:
On the weekend of January 21st – 23rd, Tim and his family are relaunching the Hug-a-thon. The goal is to get ONE MILLION hugs and ONE MILLION dollars in donations, all to benefit the Hearts of Joy International charity. Details are unfolding now and more will be shared in the Fall. This incredible non-profit provides life-saving heart surgery for children born with Down Syndrome. Learn more at Hearts of Joy International.