Category: Children's Picture Book
Hardcover | 40 pages | 979-8-90115-054-2
Trim Size: 8.5” H x 10.3” W
List Price: $18.99 USD
Publisher: Starfish Bay® Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Fiction (Toy Fantasy) / Family Stories / New Sibling
Reading Level: Grade 1-2
Interest Level: Grades PreK-2
Guided Reading Level: K
Lexile® Measure: 490L
Accelerated Reader® Level/Poin: 2.7/0.5
Hugo Bear fears being forgotten—until he finds a new role in the family.
Hugo Bear is a teddy on a heartfelt journey to rekindle a connection with his owner, Ruby. Hugo always loves seeing Ruby, but when she returns home one day, she starts to ignore him. Feeling lost and wondering if Ruby has outgrown him, Hugo starts to think it might be time to leave home forever—until he realizes there is still a very important role for him, especially with a new baby on the way. Join Hugo Bear in this touching story about love, acceptance, and family bonds.
Emma Counsell is a graduate of The Australian Writers’ Centre and is passionate about writing picture books that resonate with young readers. With a background in fine arts, her artistic vision enriches her storytelling. Based on the Gold Coast, Australia, she shares her home with her husband, two spirited children, and her father, all of whom provide her with endless inspiration (and occasional chaos) for her creative journey.
Chiara Franceschetti has always loved drawing. Originally a graduate of architecture, it was after having two children that she began her creative career. Inspired by the mountainous surroundings of her childhood, fairy tales, and travel, Chiara works digitally, often combining watercolors to form detailed and joyfully colored artwork. Chiara lives in South Tyrol, Italy, with her husband and two children.
Key Features:
- The perfect story for children adjusting to a new sibling, offering comfort and reassurance through Hugo’s journey.
- Hugo Bear’s expressive and humorous personality will charm readers and make him an unforgettable character.
- Playful illustrations that are filled with character, enhance the connection readers will have with Hugo Bear’s journey.
Themes:
- Adjusting to a new sibling
- Fear of being replaced/forgotten
- Finding new purpose and meaning
- Growing and adapting to change
- Self-worth and identity
- Love and belonging
- Resilience and transformation
- The enduring bond between child and beloved toy









