Ann Marie Denson's Reviews > The Giant Hug

Theme: This story embodies a theme of kindness and love.

Summary: Sweet Owen did not want to send his Granny any old birthday card in the mail. He wanted to send her a real, big hug! Owen started the chain of hugs with the mailman behind the counter at the post office, and instructed him to pass it along all the way to Granny. Hugs passed from acquaintance to acquaintance, stranger to stranger, and mailman to Granny. Days were made and joy abounded from the simple act of kindness Owen took to make his Granny's birthday special. Granny was even able to return a surprise favor all the way back to Owen!

Personal Response: I wish everyone had hearts like Owen! He made loving others look so simple. His attitude was contagious, and that is why every person along the way was inspired to pass along his hug. My favorite part of the story was seeing the expressions on each character's face in the pictures as they received a random hug.

Recommendation: I recommend this book for children ages 4 to 8. It is light-hearted and comical, yet warm and inspiring. Children will giggle at the silly characters and be amazed at how far a hug can make it across the country. Owen's thoughtfulness can be used to teach children about making others happy with kindness and love.