The Giant Hug

I purchased "The Giant Hug" as a Christmas gift for my Special Need Grandson, Malachi. I read the story to him on Christmas Evening. My grandson has some limitations, but he has an exceptional mind. As I read The Giant Hug to him, I showed him the beautiful illustrations relating to the character being spoken of. As each page was turned, his eyes grew bigger,and he became more anxious. And as the story ended he looked at me and smiled, as if to say "I would have done the same thing". The ending was so awesome, a mixture suspense,and imagination, with a flair of possibility. It was a joy to reread it. Kudos to Sandra Horning on this one,and I will be looking closely for more of her writings. This book is a great tool for any mother teaching her child about dreams comming true. Thank You, Mia Weaver

A grandson is sending a hug to his granny; he tells his mother he doesn't want to send her a picture of a hug -- he wants to send an actual hug. So when he mails his hug he opens his arms wide and hugs Mr. Nevin, the guy at the post office. Mr. Nevin continues the hug to Ms. Porter, the mail sorter; who hugs Leroy, the mailman. All the characters are animals drawn with diverse and quirky personalities -- and the pictures are a big part of the enjoyment--showing the shyness, compassion, sharing, embarassment, and love of sending this hug. The point is -- everyone gets changed by the hug.

Sandra Horning is a new children's book author, and I hope she comes out with many more. The story presents a rich and positive view of community and cooperation across the miles as the characters work together to deliver young Owen's "giant hug" to his granny far away. It's warm and funny and has a clever twist ending that will entice your child to ask for this book again and again!

My family loved this book! It reminds you how much a simple hug can brighten your day. It's a wonderful read to start or end your day with. And it inspires extra hugs from my son. The perfect book for anyone who's far away from a child they love and, of course, your friendly mailman.

I went to an independent children's bookstore in L.A. and asked for ten, good, newly published picture books. This was my favorite and I bought it. The story really resonated with me, the illustrations are wonderful, and it demonstrates the magic of children's books - something that a child would wish to do (send a hug to his grandma through the mail) and would never happen in the "real" world but happens beautifully in the story! Lovely.