Starhug, a new children’s book by Seattle author Cindy Wong, has expanded its list of local stockists. The book can now be found at The Wing Luke Museum, the Kunikyuna bookstore in Uwajimaya, Island Books on Mercer Island, Barnes and Noble at Northgate, and Nordstrom stores nationwide. 

Starhug follows a star and sea star connecting through an emotional journey and weaves together social and emotional learning traitsinto a beautiful tale that reaches across the universe from the depths of the oceans to outer space. The story was inspired by the emotional loss of Cindy’s mother, diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in January of 2018. Her mother passed away within two months of the original diagnosis and Cindy’s kids often asked, “Where did Grandma go?” to which she replied, “Grandma is up in the stars.”

In the book, Cindy’s mom is portrayed as a star in the sky and her children represent the sea stars back on earth, healing from a loss. “Starhug is not about grief, but about healing, hope, and supporting each other through difficult times,” said Cindy, “With so many of us separated from loved ones over the course of the pandemic, this book is bound to resonate with all.”

Giving Back

$1 from the sale of every hardcover book sold will be donated to SMooCH (Seattle Musicians for Children’s Hospital) to raise funds and awareness for the hospital's uncompensated care program.

About Starhug

Starhug is about connection. It is a story designed to plant a seed for a child and a kind reminder to any inner child that we are all connected and can help each other heal through emotional struggles.

Written by Cindy Wong and illustrated by ShiShi Nguyen, this heartwarming and magical book for all ages is about a star and sea star connecting through an emotional journey. Starhug will fill any child's or inner child's heart with gratitude for this wonderful world we live in, while reminding everyone of the power of a hug! Learn more at www.starhugbooks.com.

About Cindy Wong

Author Cindy Wong is a Seattle native, University of Washington graduate, and mother of three. In her professional career she served as the Regional Asia HR Director for Saatchi & Saatchi with a focus on employee training and development. Cindy is currently an office manager in Seattle and works as a substitute Paraprofessional providing instructional and behavioral support to students. Cindy is well-known in the community for giving big hugs and deeply believes in the power of human connection.