New Children's Book Shares The "Power Of Pretend" During A Pandemic

Virtual Hug for the World is inspired by the true story of a pretend journey around the world

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Virtual Hug for the World

Apr 30, 2020, 08:07 ET

CHICAGO, April 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Stuck at home under quarantine, kids and parents are struggling to connect with the world around them. For one Chicago mom, the time at home inspired her to create the journey of a lifetime for her kids…a pretend journey that is. Virtual Hug for the World is a new book that shares this story.

As an executive in the hotel industry, Amanda Perlyn Jackson empathizes with impact of the COVID-19 virus. During a time when travel is limited, Amanda decided to spend her evenings and days off creating a children's book that would help support relief efforts.

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The illustrations from Virtual Hug for the World are inspired by a “pretend journey around the world” from the icebergs of Antarctica, to the beaches of Rio, to the city of Chicago. Breaking out of quarantine routine, Amanda Perlyn Jackson wrote and illustrated this playful tale she hopes will encourage children to use their imagination, stay positive, and learn to share kindness with others. The digital book, children’s activities, and travel tunes are free online at virtualhugfortheworld.com.
The illustrations from Virtual Hug for the World are inspired by a “pretend journey around the world” from the icebergs of Antarctica, to the beaches of Rio, to the city of Chicago. Breaking out of quarantine routine, Amanda Perlyn Jackson wrote and illustrated this playful tale she hopes will encourage children to use their imagination, stay positive, and learn to share kindness with others. The digital book, children’s activities, and travel tunes are free online at virtualhugfortheworld.com.

"My heart is with everyone who has been deeply affected by the virus," Amanda said.  "Seeing the world through children's eyes has helped bring levity to a tough time. My goal was to create a positive and playful story that inspires kids and parents to share kindness and connect with the world."

Virtual Hug for the World was written and illustrated in April 2020. The story is set in a Chicago home where two young brothers are quarantined. In an effort to share love and joy, the boys decide to take an imaginary journey around the world. Visiting seven continents in seven days, they have an adventure of a lifetime, learn about culture, and share virtual hugs with new friends.

An excerpt from Virtual Hug for the World:

For every boy and every girl there is something you can do.

Be kind to others and send love from me and you.

When you go to bed at night and are tucked in snug,

Say a prayer for the world and give it a virtual hug!

The digital book can be accessed for free on the website. In addition to the book, Jackson has curated a playlist of "travel tunes" to help add to the experience. Readers are invited to make a donation which proceeds will be transferred to support local Chicago charities.

About Virtual Hug for the World

Inspired by the true story of a pretend journey, two young brothers "travel the world" from their home using imaginative ways to connect with others, learn about culture, and share virtual hugs with new friends.

SOURCE Virtual Hug for the World

Related Links

https://virtualhugfortheworld.com

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