How Many Hugs? by Heather Swain (review)

If two arms give one hug, how many hugs does a baby octopus get from its parent? How about a baby centipede, or a shrimpy little shrimp? Part counting book and part nature exploration, this title takes readers on a rhyming jaunt though the insect world and under the sea to meet a variety of many-legged critters who give their hugs in multiples, scattering tidbits of information with every encounter. Henry creates appealing beach and underwater scenes in a palette of lively blues and greens and populates them with smiling cartoonish animals that will leave viewers eager to give or receive a hug or two (or five) of their own. A multiracial family's visit to the beach frames the story and leaves readers with a warm affirmation of parental love. Back matter gives interested viewers more facts about each critter covered and will hopefully discourage them from attempting to hug the next spider they encounter. SS