A Hug for Punch

The inspiring story of Punch, the tiny, orphaned monkey who has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Viral social media sensation Punch and his beloved stuffed orangutan have captivated internet users worldwide. Now the heartwarming tale of his search for love and belonging is available for the first time as a picture book. Punch is a baby macaque, eager to explore the world at the Ichikawa Zoo in Japan. But his mother can't take care of him, so it's up to the zookeepers to look after Punch. They give him a snuggly stuffed orangutan that he can hug and hold close. When it's time for Punch to join the other macaques on Monkey Mountain, Punch is scared, and the other monkeys aren't ready for him either. Time and again, he returns to the comfort of his "Oran-mama." But Punch knows even the coziest stuffed animal isn't the same as a real-life friend. When will Punch finally find someone to hug him back? Here's the story of one brave little monkey who refuses to give up on love.

Caroline is the author of The Corgi and the Queen, which was selected as one of VOGUE Magazine's Best Gifts For Kids. She has also written Messi's Magic, a Junior Library Guild Gold Medal pick; The Memory Cake; and I Am Not Happy!, which was a Kids' Indie Next List Pick. I Am Not Grumpy! is forthcoming. Caroline lives with her family in Los Angeles, California. Anoosha Syed is an illustrator, author, and character designer for animation. She is the creator of That's Not My Name!, Love in Every Language, The Salt Princess, and Lost Stick. She has also illustrated over forty books, including Bilal Cooks Daal by Aisha Saeed and Rani's Remarkable Day by Saadia Faruqi. You can visit Anoosha Syed at AnooshaSyed.com or follow her on Instagram and TikTok @AnooshaDraws.