About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a new milestone that requires independence or when they are struggling with the 'scary' unknowns of a new environment. It is an ideal choice for the child who is eager to explore but feels a bit of trepidation about leaving their comfort zone. Through the lens of a whimsical friendship between a boy and a Sasquatch, the story explores how fear is often a product of the stories we tell ourselves rather than reality. As Hugo and his friends work toward their Bimbling Badge, they must navigate physical obstacles like rivers and sinkholes while managing the legend of a swamp monster. The book gently models how teamwork and logical thinking can dispel anxiety. It is perfectly paced for early elementary readers, offering a mix of humor and mild suspense that validates their feelings without being overwhelming. You might choose it to help a child see that even 'brave' explorers get nervous and that helping a friend is often the best way to find your own courage.
