The Circle of Hugs, (Hardcover)

This charming children's picture book exhibits the positive impact and legacy of giving and receiving hugs throughout a lifetime. A young girl wants a hug from a loved one as she is experiencing a wide range of emotions. She is pictured being left out by friends, receiving an award and waiting at a bus stop. She treasures the hugs she shares with her mom and realizes she won't always physically be there with her. Memories of her mom are woven in and felt deeply throughout her life. The young girl grows into an adolescent going away to school, a young woman traveling, a middle aged woman with her own family and eventually old age with an expanding family tree. The circle continues as she recognizes how her mom's hugs are part of her wherever she goes, and spread each time she hugs someone else. There is the recognition of how the hugs are healing, strengthening, and emotionally regulating. Many connections are made emotionally, mentally, physically, psychologically and spiritually. The eternal power of a hug bridges the gap between loved ones who are leaving for the day, longer, or have passed on. It highlights the meaningful power of memories and feelings that can be processed internally, and then shown externally through hugging. This book encapsulates the circle of learning, letting go, nurturing and growing socially and generationally. It is a story connecting the body, mind and spirit. One filled with hope and loss, depicting mourning and moving forward. It displays the faithful ties and bonds we hold on to with loved ones, a way to honor them and ourselves in the past, present and future.

Originally written for children ages 3-7, this story is ageless, especially for those who treasure hugs. It's an ideal gift to share with friends, family, teachers, and counselors. A thoughtful sentiment for a special event, baby shower, graduation, birthday, during times of celebration, reflection, transition and loss.