Hugs still feel the same by Kiralee Strong and Jenni Barrand

Even though once again the rain is lashing the window, the clouds hide the morning sun and paint the outside grey, things will be okay because morning hugs are still the same. And as the day progresses, the little girl is still calm and optimistic because everyone's hugs feel the same. Even when her life is turned upside down, even the hugs of strangers are reassuring because a hug can get us through so many tough times.

This story starts like the beginning of any wet day - there might be a bit of regret as plans have to be changed, but a hug from a loved one will soothe that away. But as the rain continues and the refrain is repeated, you know there is something brewing - what has gone wrong? Whose hug is going to be missing?

Sadly, this is a story that is going to resonate with many of its readers, particularly children, and particularly those in coastal Queensland and northern New South Wales right now, and while its message is a positive one of resilience, the kindness and care of strangers and the power of a hug, it could be a trigger because the climax is the family having to evacuate their home as floodwaters rise, and are rescued by the SES and taken to a community shelter as they watch their home float away. (I'm disclosing the end because it could also be a trigger for the adult sharing it.)

Inspired by the author's real-life experience of the severe flooding that engulfed the Northern Rivers of NSW, Australia in 2022 and being a volunteer for the recovery efforts, it was important to look for the beauty amongst the devastation and regardless of what was going on around, the comfort that a hug from a loved one was palpable. It's just sad that it's publication comes at this time, so soon after the events on the Gold Coast and Brisbane and the current events in Townsville, but then, perhaps fortuitous because it could be a timely reminder that hugs are still the same. They still offer a consoling message of a shared experience and emotion.

But even for those who haven't been through the trauma of such scary weather events, there is still a strong message for anyone who has gone through similar profound tragedy - that reaching out and physical connection between loved ones and even strangers gives so much comfort and empathy and works so well when words won't. While teachers' notes help explore the book more deeply, to me its essence is in its reassurance of family resilience, of community connection and that, no matter whether you're giving or getting them, hugs still feel the same.

Themes: Floods, Love.

Barbara Braxton