  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 11/01/2016 Siblings Woody and Annie are experts in fighting over the same toy (“It’s MINE!”), name-calling (“You ding-dong!”), and kicking and punching. Not only does their behavior frustrate their beleaguered mom, but even the cat’s whiskers frizz in disbelief at their endless squabbles. Mom’s solution? Woody and Annie must “hug it out.” The dismayed twosome is bug-eyed in astonishment as they skeptically practice this potentially unpleasant solution. After each episode of backsliding into arguments, they utilize their new skill as a pleased Mom looks on. At book’s end, even the frazzled cat and shy mouse clinch together in a warm hug. Illustrations in line drawing and pastels highlight the distinctive personalities (and hairstyles) of the two youngsters, and the shocked expressions of the cat. Their large scarlet faces, tousled hair, and big eyes express emotions that fluctuate in and out of control. A humorous display of the challenges young siblings encounter in a family. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. School Library Journal - 01/01/2017 PreS-Gr 1—A funny, touching tale. Woody and Annie are either twins or siblings very close in age, and they just can't seem to get along. Their fed-up mother finally comes up with a suitable punishment for all of their bickering, squabbling, and tattling. Every time the children start to fuss, their mom explains that they'll just have to "hug it OUT!" and give each other a big squeeze. Eventually, the two get so tired of being in each other's personal space that they separate and play on their own. As predicted, they realize that playing together and getting along are better than anything else. This story is sure to please any child (or parent) who has dealt with sibling rivalry. The humor and charm, as well as the joyful and expressive cartoon illustrations, are bound to delight a wide audience. VERDICT Suitable for any library, this book is an entertaining read-aloud or lap share.—Jasmine L. Precopio, Fox Chapel Area School District, Pittsburgh - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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