Gus the Pug Wants a Hug (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9798993532028)

Gus the Pug wants a hug-but finding the perfect one isn't as easy as he thought.

With his loyal stuffed friend Sally the Seal tucked safely inside his backpack, Gus sets off on a heartwarming adventure in search of the perfect hug. Along the way, he meets all kinds of animals, each offering a hug that's a little too slippery, too prickly, too tiny, too tall... or just not quite right.

A frog is too slippery.

A hedgehog is too prickly.

A bee is too small.

A giraffe is too tall.

From sleepy koalas to stinky skunks and shy turtles, every encounter leaves Gus wondering if the perfect hug even exists at all.

But after a long day of searching, Gus returns home feeling discouraged-only to discover that the best hugs often come from the ones who love us most.

Filled with playful repetition, lovable animal friends, and a heartfelt message about love, belonging, and connection, Gus the Pug Wants a Hug is a cozy, engaging read-aloud children will want to hear again and again. Along the way, young readers are gently introduced to important social-emotional themes like patience, persistence, disappointment, boundaries, and the comfort of feeling safe and loved.

Perfect for ages 2-8, this charming story is ideal for bedtime, classroom storytime, and meaningful moments shared between children and caregivers. Warm, comforting, and full of heart, Gus the Pug Wants a Hug is a story that will leave little readers smiling-and reaching for a hug of their own.