“Family Kisses” by Caitlin Roeder is a thoughtful social-emotional picture book that explores family traditions, cultural celebrations, and an important conversation about personal space. The story follows Mei-Li as she prepares for a joyful Chinese New Year gathering with her extended family. Through the excitement of food, traditions, and loved ones arriving, readers see the warmth of family celebrations and the many ways affection is expressed. When relatives greet Mei-Li with hugs, kisses, and playful touches, she realizes that while she loves her family, some of those moments make her uncomfortable. The story gently introduces an important idea for young readers—that it’s okay to have feelings about physical touch and to communicate those feelings with trusted adults. With the help of her grandmother, Mei-Li learns how to share her feelings and finds new ways for family members to greet her that still show love and connection. The next celebration includes bows, blown kisses, and playful gestures that respect her comfort while keeping the joy of family traditions alive. This book is especially well suited for families who want to open conversations about personal boundaries, cultural traditions, and respectful ways to show affection. The illustrations are warm and expressive, the text is clear and accessible for young readers, and the story creates a gentle space for discussing a topic that can sometimes feel difficult for children to express.

This is a book I needed as a kid. There are some books that entertain, and then there are books that heal. Family Kisses by Caitlin Roeder and illustrated by Kristen Chow is a tender, culturally rich story set during Chinese New Year that gently opens the door to conversations about consent and body autonomy. Through Mei-Li’s experience with loving family traditions and unwanted physical affection, this story models what it looks like when adults truly listen to children. This is the kind of book that not only celebrates culture and family, but also affirms that love and boundaries can coexist beautifully.

This book is incredibly sweet and quietly powerful. It celebrates family and tradition while also making space for kids who experience touch and sensory input differently. As someone with autism and sensory sensitivities, I felt seen in a way I genuinely wish I had as a child. What I appreciated most is how gentle and respectful the story is. It shows that love does not have to look only one way, and that caring adults can listen, adapt, and still keep connection at the center. The illustrations are beautiful, simple, and surprisingly deep. A lovely read for families, classrooms, and anyone who wants a thoughtful book about consent, boundaries, and sensory needs.