The Kissing Hand was an Ed Press Award-winner and Distinguished Achievements Award for Excellence in Educational Publishing.

Author Audrey Penn and illustrators Ruth E. Harper and Nancy M. Leak created a heartfelt story of a Raccoon named Chester who's about to begin his first "night of school" and how he deals with the apprehensiveness that he's feeling about attending his first big event.

His mom, Mrs. Raccoon, has a secret and comforting gift to share with him on his very important night.

An inspiring story of love between a mother and her baby. A strong message of family values which support and encourage learning and independence.

The Kissing Hand reassures children during those first-time events a child may encounter as being "too scary" and helps ease that transition into a more settled feeling about the surroundings around them.

An absolute treasure for parents, teachers, and care-giving souls who are part of a child's life. It's a place where children know they are loved and wanted is what a child should always hear and know is true. The Kissing Hand is a lovely example of celebrating that feeling as it relays the message that no matter what journeys their little feet (or paws) take them on, love will be with them always.