‘Mummy,’ said Lucy, ‘can I have a hug before I go to bed? I promise I’ll give it back.’
When Lucy’s mum gives her her last hug, Lucy sets out to share it with everyone in the family. Daddy give sit back, a little bit stronger. The twins vie it back, a little reluctantly, but twice as big as before. Baby Lily gives it back all peanut buttery. But when Lucy hugs the family dog, Annie, Annie runs away without returning the hug. Lucy is devastated. How will she tell Mum that she lost the last hug? Luckily, though, Annie is not a bad dog – just energetic, and eventually she finds Lucy and gives her a slobbery hug, just in time for bedtime.
The Runaway Hug is a gorgeous picture book from two of Australia’s finest picture book creators, Nick Bland and Freya Blackwood. Bland’s story is strong, yet gentle and is well complemented by Blackwood’s watercolour and pencil illustrations. The family and their home are a lovely mix of whimsy and the kind of chaos that comes with big, loving families.
The Runaway Hug is a warm tale of love and laughter.
The Runaway Hug, by Nick Bland & Freya Blackwood
Scholastic, 2011
ISBN 978186504405
This book can be purchased in good bookstores, or online from Fishpond. Buying through this link supports Aussiereviews.