Hug Me

"There is, of course, a deeper allegorical undertone to the tale, beyond the surface interpretation of celebrating one's inner softness in a culture that encourages a prickly exterior. A subtle undercurrent celebrates the spiritual homecoming of finding one's tribe, the expansive embrace found in a kinship of souls. The story is also a celebration of free will, reminding us ever so gently that whatever our circumstances, we always have choices -- and that our inability to see this is perhaps our gravest self-imposed limitation."
--Brain Pickings

"Unlikely friends come together in "Hug Me," by the Italian author Simona Ciraolo. She uses whimsical, jagged colored-pencil drawings to portray Felipe, a young cactus who just wants someone to wrap his arms around."
--The New York Times

"There's a coy relationship between the text and artwork in Italian-born author/illustrator Ciraolo's U.S. debut [...] Ciraolo's softly drawn cartoon cacti radiate charm."
--Publisher's Weekly

"Ciraola tells her story with wry understatement, allowing her expressive illustrations to carry the narrative. ... Though Felipe's not the first prickly children's-book character ever to want a hug, he certainly is a charmer."
--Kirkus Reviews

"One of the things I like about this picture book--aside from its adorableness!--is that it's honest. [...] Hug Me is a book about being yourself, getting your needs met, and finding a kindred soul. All in a super cute package. Well done!"
--This Picture Book Life

"Hug Me is a remarkable book that tells a complex tale in charming drawings and poetic prose. [...] It's the story of the universal need for affection and friendship, even if we are somewhat prickly."
--Joy Corcoran

Young readers may identify with Felipe's journey of finding friends in a challenging environment. His struggle is relatable and empathetic, and his delightfully illustrated character is welcoming and warm, despite his prickly exterior.
--Portland Book Review

"Simply written, the tale offers moments of comedic delight... Ciraolo's use of coloured pencils and felt tips gives a rawness to the artwork, making it all the more organic and delectable."
--The Illustrated Forest