The Kissing Hand Books

The ten books are shown in publication order. Begin with The Kissing Hand to learn Mrs. Raccoon's reassuring family ritual; the later stories reuse that secure relationship while addressing different childhood transitions.

The full picture books explore a particular challenge, while A Bedtime Kiss, A Color Game, and A Kissing Hand for Chester Raccoon are shorter board books for younger children. They are companions, not required chapters in one continuous plot.

Sources: Tanglewood's Kissing Hand series page.

The series is designed for talking through common worries. Topics include starting school, a new sibling, moving, bullying, a loved one's death, sleeping away from home, and trying something frightening.

The treatment is gentle and adult support is always present. Chester may feel jealous, sad, worried, or scared, but each book closes with reassurance and a practical way to feel connected or capable.