DON'T HUG DOUG 

Written by Carrie Finison

Illustrated by Daniel Wiseman

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Meet Doug, an ordinary kid who doesn’t like hugs, in this fun and exuberant story which aims to spark discussions about bodily autonomy and consent.

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G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers (Jan 26, 2021)

ISBN 9781984813022

ALA Notable Children's Book, 2022

Publishers Weekly Starred Review - 2/10/21

"A gently humorous picture book that kindly, effectively highlights the importance of asking others before initiating physical contact." 

Kirkus Starred Review - 10/20/20

"...fun to read aloud or explore independently. An excellent update on the Golden Rule: treat people how they want to be treated."

Booklist Review - 5/28/21

"A simple, effective plea to respect other people’s boundaries is here set in a comical framework.... A fun way to deliver the truth of different strokes for different folks."

Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books - 12/2020

"Doug is not big on hugs—he thinks they’re “too squeezy,” “too squashy,” “too squooshy,” “too mooshy.” Doug’s interests include his rock collection, harmonica bands, and not being hugged, even on his birthday or as consolation for dropped ice cream. He only likes hugs from his mom before bedtime, and of course high-fives. This readaloud is simple and effective in showing young viewers how to establish bodily autonomy—Doug firmly but politely rejects hugs, even as the book suggests different situations where people might hug him. The whimsical displays in digital art of people with oversized heads hugging porcupines and Frankensteins, Doug’s depiction of two robots hugging uncomfortably, and scenes with big groups offering their opinions on hugs (“Who here likes hugs?” “When I’m sad.” “On Tuesdays.” “I’d love a hug right now!”) provide viewers a soft lens through which to consider their own stance. This book would be a great starting point for a conversation about boundaries and how to set them."

LULU & ZOEY

Written by Carrie Finison

Illustrated by Brittany Jackson

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Sometimes Lulu wants to play, but her big sister Zoey doesn’t. Sometimes Zoey tries to share, but Lulu won’t. Sometimes, it is HARD to get along with a sister! But, sometimes, sisters come together and create something wonderful. This charming story follows the adventures of Lulu and Zoey as they navigate the ups and downs of sisterhood and find there is room in their hearts for each other.

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Running Press Kids (June 7, 2022)

ISBN 9780762473984

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HURRY, LITTLE TORTOISE, TIME FOR SCHOOL!

Written by Carrie Finison

Illustrated by Erin Kraan

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It’s the first day of school and Little Tortoise is ready with a backpack filled with new school supplies. Little Tortoise can’t wait to get to school and tries very hard not to be the last student there.
 
But soon Cheetah, Llama, and even a snail on a scooter, overtake her. And then when she gets stuck in the gutter of the book, she’s sure she’ll be the last pupil to arrive! But the timely arrival of Mr. Sloth, her new teacher, changes everything.
 
Gentle reassuring language full of wordplay, and bold and bright art by an up and coming artist offer students a comforting story about this new experience. 

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Random House Studio (July 19, 2022)

ISBN 9780593305669

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