A Hug for Punch

By Caroline L. Perry

The inspiring story of Punch, the tiny, orphaned monkey who has captured the hearts of millions around the world.

Viral social media sensation Punch and his beloved stuffed orangutan have captivated internet users worldwide. Now the heartwarming tale of his search for love and belonging is available for the first time as a picture book.

Punch is a baby macaque, eager to explore the world at the Ichikawa Zoo in Japan. But his mother can't take care of him, so it's up to the zookeepers to look after Punch. They give him a snuggly stuffed orangutan that he can hug and hold close.

When it's time for Punch to join the other macaques on Monkey Mountain, Punch is scared, and the other monkeys aren't ready for him either. Time and again, he returns to the comfort of his "Oran-mama." But Punch knows even the coziest stuffed animal isn't the same as a real-life friend. When will Punch finally find someone to hug him back? Here's the story of one brave little monkey who refuses to give up on love.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0GVXNT4JL
• ISBN13: 9798217394227
• Release Date: August 2026
• Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Age Range: 3 to 7 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 2