Tickles the Cactus lives alone in the desert, and he wants to have a friend. A simple reading for young children to learn about having a friend. Maybe during these lockdown time, children often stay at home, and now's the time to make friends in school. Just like Tickles.

This is an interesting picture book which tells the story of a lonely cactus named Tickles who has a hard time making friends alone in the desert. Animals and plants that live near him are not interested in being his friend, but finally one day he meets a person and offers shade and protection for the traveler and the two become friends. The ending is a bit abrupt, but I think that the message about the importance of not judging people by their appearances still shines through. The font is large and accessible and the illustrations are interesting and help tell the story. I especially like the little "free hugs" sign Tickles wears! I could definitely see children in the age 4-8 range enjoying this book. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this book!

This is a sweet simple book about how to make friends. Even a prickly cactus can make friends with a little effort. The bright, cheerful illustrations in primary colors lend it charm and add to its appeal.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
The cover and title of this cute book caught my attention. The story was cute and easy to follow. The illustrations we're basic but adorable. I think there could've been a little more to the story as the ending was quite abrupt.

I thought that this was a fun story and it was one that I enjoyed reading with my daughter

The book was easy to read and the story was easy to follow.

The images were very basic but they did work well with the story.

It is 3.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 4 stars for Goodreads and Amazon

Thank you NetGalley and Kate Drag for accepting my request to read and review Tickles the Cactus, Can Tickles Find a Friend?

Author: Kate Drag
Published: 07/05/22
Genre: Children's Fiction -- Parenting & Families

The illustrations are cute. My favorite is the tumbleweed.

When I saw the cover, I did chuckle over the free hugs button. I didn't understand all the purple landscaping. Albeit, visually the pages were appealing.

The story itself is simple. I thought it ended abruptly and the traveler's temporary friendship could have been explained.

All-in-all it is cute and I would gift it.