From Head to Toe Eric Carle

A Hug for You
Margaret Anastas
Hugs are for "a cold winter day / to
chase monsters away . . . for getting so
tall /for no reason at all." This tender
story explores the many reasons for a
duckling to receive a hug during a day
spent with friends, including a mouse,
a dragonfly, a ladybug, a fish, and a
caterpillar. However, the last hug is the
best -- the one that the duckling gives
its parent. Significantly refreshing is
the unknown gender of both. The
rhythmic text is set in large print
against the soft pastels and white
background of the pictures. Winter's
illustrations provide a warm and
flowing connection to the words,
creating an experience that children
are certain to enjoy.