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“Apapachos (or hugs) brighten celebrations, soften disappointments, and chase away nighttime fears…Highlighting the many forms love can take, Harmony’s warm, reassuring story makes clear that distance can never diminish love. [Meza’s illustrations] radiate emotion and make the meaning of apapachos tangible.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“Young readers will welcome the sweet message that apapachos come in all shapes and sizes but they all mean you are loved.”

—Booklist

Apapacho Love: A Story About Hugs from the Heart

Written by Cynthia Harmony
Illustrated by Erika Meza
Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Every day for Luna starts and ends with Mami’s apapachos—hugs that come from Mami’s soul. Her warm cuddles fill Luna’s heart, like stars fill the sky. They make her feel safe. They make her feel seen. But, oh no, Mami has to take a trip! What will Luna do without Mami’s hugs?

Maybe…apapachos can come from other people, too.

Like Abue’s, which makes Luna feel brave. And Daddy’s, which makes her giggle. Not to mention her dog, Benito’s wet nuzzle which tells her to rise and shine with a smile. It turns out even when Mami’s far away, her love is all around.

Apapacho love is everywhere!

Primary ISBN: 9780374391836
Publication Date: January 2026
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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