Hello, friends! Our book today is No Hugs For Porcupine by Zoe Waring, a sweet story about a lonely little porcupine making a compassionate friend.

All the animals in the forest love to give each other hugs and cuddles – except for porcupine. The others whisper that he is too grumpy and prickly, but wouldn’t you be if no one wanted to give you a hug? Porcupine storms off by himself, where he tries to give himself a hug – only to be pricked by his own quills. Lonely and excluded, he tries to shakes off his quills, blunt them on a tree, even cover himself in moss, but to no avail. At last, he meets an Armadillo who offers him some comfort and advice, including introducing him to a new way of showing affection: a kiss. Finding that nose kisses are possible for him (no quills on his face, after all), he and Armadillo go back to find that the animals all miss Porcupine, and are eager to learn the new trick to including him in their friendly affections.

Very sweet. The story is a gentle fable that encourages kindness, understanding, and inclusiveness, showing little bookworms that it’s important to find ways to make sure everyone can participate (Porcupine even gives Owl – now left out because he cannot kiss with his beak – a gentle hug on the final page). The illusions have a wholesome charm, featuring cartoonish wildlife with open, endearing faces. The length is fine, and JJ liked it (especially learning how to say “porcupine”). This is a lovely little story, and it’s Baby Bookworm approved.

(Note: A copy of this book was provided to The Baby Bookworm by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)