Book Review: Can I Give You a Squish? by Diana Neilson
When I first stumbled upon Can I Give You a Squish? by Diana Neilson, I felt an immediate tug at my heartstrings. The title alone piqued my curiosity, hinting at something both whimsical and meaningful. As someone who treasures stories that explore emotional nuances and interpersonal connections, I was excited to dive in. Little did I know just how impactful this delightful book would be!
At its core, Can I Give You a Squish? is a charming exploration of consent and personal preferences in affectionate greetings. We follow the endearing character Kai as he navigates the complexities of interactions with his underwater friends and family. Right from the beginning, we’re introduced to Puffer Fish, who finds himself overwhelmed by an unsolicited hug. It’s a relatable moment that sparks a broader conversation about not everyone enjoying the same forms of affection—an important lesson for readers of all ages.
I was especially enchanted by the array of characters Kai encounters. From the gentle Octopus who prefers tentacle shakes to the cheerful Dolphin who enjoys fin bumps, each character brings their own unique flair and preferences for greeting. This diversity not only enriches the narrative but also serves as a wonderful medium to discuss topics that can sometimes feel daunting—like understanding and respecting each other’s comfort zones.
One of my favorite moments occurs when Puffer Fish puffs up “like a water balloon,” visually representing emotional responses that young readers can easily understand. This vivid imagery illustrates the social cues and boundaries we all encounter. I found myself wishing I had this book in my hands when my own children were navigating their early friendships. The ability to convey such essential social skills in a gentle, engaging manner is a testament to Neilson’s talent.
Neilson’s writing style is warm and approachable, making complex themes accessible for young ears. The pacing is just right—each character’s introduction feels like a delightful new discovery, allowing readers to savor each moment. The illustrations complement the text beautifully, bringing life to the underwater world and enhancing the emotional undertones of the story.
One aspect that truly resonated with me was Puffer Fish’s willingness to communicate his discomfort. It’s a subtle yet powerful reminder that we can and should express our boundaries respectfully. This teaching moment is elegantly woven into the fabric of the story and makes it the perfect platform to launch discussions about consent and empathy.
I can’t recommend Can I Give You a Squish? enough, especially for parents, educators, or anyone looking to foster healthy conversations about physical boundaries with children. Whether you’re sharing it at storytime or exploring it together at home, this book will undoubtedly take center stage in any young reader’s collection.
In conclusion, reading Can I Give You a Squish? left me feeling uplifted and hopeful. It’s a gentle reminder of the importance of understanding others and finding joy in personalized connections. If I could, I would give Neilson a squish for her beautiful endeavor—but only if she’s comfortable with it! If you’re seeking a heartfelt story that resonates with timeless themes of consent and friendship, look no further—this book is a must-have!
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