Kirkus Review

Mr. Panda is available for hugs, but no one seems to want one. Mr. Panda sports a "Free Hugs" T-shirt (possibly a gift from his lemur friend) as he makes himself available for hugs to his many friends. "I need a hug," says the skunk, approaching while apparently wafting a stinky smell. "OK, Skunk. Let's have a hug," says Mr. Panda. But it turns out that Skunk was speaking to the crocodile. Croc (wearing a clothespin on its nose) and Skunk exchange hugs and "I love you"s as Mr. Panda looks on in some confusion. The rebuff is repeated with Elephant and Mouse, some sheep and Ostrich, and Sloth (who can hug itself). Lemur and Penguin are Mr. Panda's constant companions as he rides a bike, drives a minibus, and flies a small plane, all without success in delivering hugs. The animals, most gray or black and white, stand out against a solid red background, the doughnut-decorated heart-shaped balloon Mr. Panda totes the only pops of other colors. When he gives up with an "I guess nobody wants my hugs," the lemur and penguin offer Mr. Panda a hug, which he accepts, followed by the others in a big group hug: "We love you, Mr. Panda." Mr. Panda's reserve, large size, and lumpish dignity make his mission seem endearing, and his willingness to give up is a somewhat positive one for nonhuggers. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10.2-by-20.8-inch double-page spreads viewed at 12.4% of actual size). Silly, of course, and pretty sweet. (Picture book. 2-5) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.