The Runaway Hug

Written by Nick Bland · Illustrated by Freya Blackwood

A child's quest to safeguard a precious hug faces an unexpected challenge.

5.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 387 ratings

32 pages· 466 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

$16.99Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon.

Bookroo's summary

Lucy borrows her mom's last hug, determined to keep it safe. She shares it with her family, always retrieving it, until her dog, Annie, refuses to return it. Can Lucy reclaim the hug and preserve the bedtime magic? Discover the warmth and whimsy of a child's imagination in this delightful tale of love and family.

From the publisher

“Mommy,” said Lucy. “Can I have a hug before I go to bed?”

When Mommy jokes that she only has one hug left, Lucy decides she must keep Mommy’s last hug safe. As Lucy shares the hug with everyone in her large and loving family, she is always careful to get it back . . . until the canine member of the family refuses to play along!

Highly acclaimed, internationally bestselling picture-book creators Nick Bland and Freya Blackwood collaborate for the first time on this charming story, which celebrates the imaginative powers of children and the extraordinary love to be found in ordinary bedtime routines.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Words: 466
Reading age: 3–7
Audience: Picture
Lexile: ~361L

Themes & topics

Books about bedtime Books about getting ready for bed Books about hugs Books about family Books about love

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.0

out of 7

5.0

“This book has a simple story, sweet message and absolutely gorgeous illustrations that add depth and character. Both the text and illustrations are soothing, making this a perfect read for helping little ones take a deep breath and calm down in preparation for quiet time or bed time. There is one illustration where the mom is not wearing pants (just a long sleeve shirt and underwear) while folding clothes, but it doesn't bother me!”

Marmee

Trusted reviewer

6.0

“This is such a sweet bedtime book! I love the idea that there's just one hug left, so you have to give it back. :) I also love the final illustrations showing the whole family, all the kids in bed. Also, this didn't bother me at all, but one thing to note in case you'd like to know is that there are a few illustrations where both the mother and daughter are getting dressed and are just wearing underwear (though a full shirt on in both cases).”

B is for Bookworm

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one