Cub

Magnus has come to live with his grandparents. They give him a soft toy lion, named Cub. Both Magnus and Cub have lost their roars. Overnight, Cub comes alive! He and Magnus play together, and Cub encourages Magnus to do things with Grandma and Grandpa. Slowly, Magnus feels braver, but sometimes he still feels a bit unsure. Then one day, Grandma asks him if he’d like a hug. Magnus hasn't had a hug for a long time. How will he respond? 

This is a deeply moving story about finding your confidence and your voice. It’s also a sensitive depiction of kinship care, where a child goes to live with a family member. Magnus’s grandparents are loving and kind, and take things slowly, at his pace. Plus they understand that sometimes a child needs a toy to imagine with, and to be brave with. The soft, beautiful illustrations add warmth to the simple words.  

This could be enjoyed by children in similar family situations, but also by any child who’s felt unnerved by change, or even any child who’s owned a beloved soft toy. It could spark conversations about families, love, courage – and might even end with a hug between adult and child.