Cuddlefish

A laugh-out-loud picture book about boundaries, self-awareness, and the joy of being yourself
Cuddle me? Cuddle who? Cuddle YOU!

In this heartwarming and hilarious undersea adventure, Cuddlefish—a sweet but clueless cuttlefish—sets out on a mission to spread hugs and happiness across the ocean floor. But there’s just one problem: not everyone wants a cuddle! As Cuddlefish bounces from one sea creature to the next, he discovers that while affection can be wonderful, it’s not always welcome—and that’s okay.
Written by award-winning author Jesse Byrd and illustrated by debut artist Michael Bensur, Cuddlefish delivers an important message about respecting personal space, understanding social cues, and ultimately learning the joys of self-love and acceptance. Bursting with vibrant underwater illustrations and playful humor, this charming picture book provides a gentle entry point for conversations around emotional intelligence, empathy, and consent—all wrapped up in a delightful ocean-themed story.

Key Features:
· Engaging and silly storytelling perfect for read-alouds with preschool and early elementary children
· Important social-emotional learning themes, including respecting boundaries and embracing individuality
· A great resource for teachers, parents, and caregivers looking to open up conversations about feelings, consent, and kindness

Whether you're a classroom teacher, a parent seeking bedtime laughs with heart, or simply a fan of aquatic adventures, Cuddlefish is a must-have for any bookshelf.

“An affectionate Cuddlefish learns about bodily autonomy and consent when his undersea hugs don’t land.” Fall 2026 Children's Preview: Picture Books —Publishers Weekly