I Need a Hug / Necesito un abrazo

Why this book?

Everyone needs a hug in this bilingual, irresistibly funny picture book from Aaron Blabey, the bestselling creator of Pig the Pug!

In I Need a Hug, a tiny porcupine just wants a cuddle. All of the other animals turn him away because of his prickly spikes. But finally, the porcupine meets an animal who's happy to hug -- a snake! 

This book supports emotional vocabulary in both English and Spanish.

Montessori Connections

Practical Life & Grace and Courtesy

Practice asking for a hug politely in English and Spanish. “Can I give you a hug?” / “¿Puedo darte un abrazo?”

Practice saying “no thank you” with respect. “No thank you.” / “No gracias.”

Language

Introduce 3-part cards for emotions: happy/feliz, sad/triste, hug/abrazo

Use puppets to retell the story with feeling words in both languages.

• Sensorial & Art

Make a porcupine using clay, pine needles, sticks, or toothpicks, draw emotions and label them in English and Spanish.

• Math & Order

Sort animals into “likes hugs / doesn’t like hugs.”, Sequence story moments: asking, refusal, reaction, new friend.

• Music & Movement - 

Act out the story using movement, ask for a hug, pretend to run away, end with a group “abracito” circle, use phrases like “abrazo/hug” while acting.

Family Connections

Invite families to talk about affection and boundaries using both languages.
Suggestions to send home:

• “¿Quieres un abrazo?” / “Do you want a hug?”
• “Está bien decir que no.” / “It’s okay to say no.”

Families can also create a simple feelings chart at home with bilingual labels.

Montessori Big Idea

This story supports Montessori Grace and Courtesy lessons by teaching children to name emotions, respect others’ boundaries, and express needs in peaceful and clear ways.

Try This at Home

Make a bilingual emotions basket using dolls or drawings. Have your child act out someone who wants a hug and someone who says “no,” using both English and Spanish words.

Final Thought

I Need a Hug / Necesito un abrazo is funny, relatable, and meaningful. It gives children the language to talk about feelings and consent—while learning those words in two languages. It aligns naturally with Montessori values of empathy, respect, and peace.