Apapacho
Love
Farrar, Straus and Giroux Macmillan Jan 13, 2026
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Written by Cynthia Harmony
Illustrated by Erika Meza
Every day for Luna starts and ends with Mami’s apapachos. 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!
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A gorgeous picture book featuring a Mexican American family that’s as comforting as a warm embrace – great for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and baby gifts!
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Praise
PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY REVIEW
“An upbeat portrait of mutuality and shared devotion."
BOOKLIST REVIEW
“Young readers will welcome the sweet message that apapachos come in all shapes and sizes but they all mean you are loved."
KIRKUS REVIEW
"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."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
"A special picture book about love, family, and friends... An excellent choice for sharing with loved ones as well as reading during story times."