Halloween Hugs

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling of being an outsider or when you want to discuss why some children act out due to difficult circumstances at home. It is a perfect choice for families looking to move past the surface level of holiday traditions to find deeper meanings of empathy and community. The story follows the Herdman siblings, known as the worst kids in the world, as they take over the local church Christmas pageant. Through their chaotic and unconventional participation, the town is forced to see the Christmas story through fresh, vulnerable eyes. It balances laugh-out-loud humor with a poignant message about not judging others. The book is ideal for ages 8 to 12, offering a realistic look at social dynamics and financial hardship while remaining hopeful and redemptive. Parents will appreciate how it humanizes the misfits in a way that feels authentic rather than preachy.