Hug OR Shrug

Hug OR Shrug is a warm and relatable picture book about the big feelings that come with small everyday moments. Each morning at school, a little boy greets his friends in his own way. Some days he gives everyone a hug. Other days he hugs only a few. And sometimes he doesn't feel like hugging anyone at all.

But while he's simply following his feelings, his friends are left wondering why they were included one day and left out the next. Their hurt feelings grow, even though he never meant to upset anyone.

Everything changes when the same thing happens to him. Suddenly he knows exactly how it feels to be left out, and that moment of understanding inspires him to find a new way to greet his friends-one that includes everyone, respects boundaries, and keeps every heart feeling safe.

Gentle, thoughtful, and full of social-emotional learning, Hug OR Shrug helps children navigate consent, empathy, and friendship in a simple, child-friendly way. It's a perfect classroom or bedtime read for starting conversations about kindness and inclusion