This is a nice, lovely, quick read, but not a light one. It is a collection of short stories, each one going deep and feeling raw and real. Nothing is fully explained, but you get a feeling of having had a glimpse of what goes on behind closed doors. The rest is all up to you; interpret it as you wish and as you see fit.

Can I have a hug first? Is Mary Paula Hunter's debut short story collection. A collection of general fiction short stories that all follow women with themes of motherhood and a lot of dancing.

This collection was just not for me. A lot of the stories had me questioning whether I was stupid and missing something or whether the story just simply had no substance. The second story in particular had me thinking "okay? And?", nothing happens in most of these stories.

Some stories also just had some big leaps in logical inconsistencies. Like a woman who apparently is agoraphobic sitting in a restaurant and interacting with other customers. I don't know whether the author meant something else?

Can I have a hug first? - 2.5✨
The morning after Christmas - 2✨
The dance studio - 3✨
The spider bite - 4✨
Rhythmic tour guide for children - 1✨
Can I stay for a while? - 2.5✨
Hotline - 1.5✨
Life support - 2✨
Cut to the chase - 3✨
The pressing foundation - 2.5✨
Where am I? - 3.5✨
Bring things out in people - 2✨
Christmas eve day - 1✨
A magnet for the weird and desperate - 2.5✨

2.35/5 rounded down

This could be good for some people. If you like general fiction and you like short story formats give it a try but I found little in this to enjoy.

Thank you to NetGalley and Unsolicited press for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own

Mary Paula Hunter's debut short story collection, "CAN I HAVE A HUG FIRST?" highlights the distinctively zany voice she developed as a performance artist. The stories feature characters struggling to navigate a world they ride like a wild horse. Problems seem self-inflicted, yet Hunter’s storytelling leaves nothing clear-cut. Is the chaos external or internal?

In the medical thriller "The Pressing Foundation," Hunter blends reality and imagination, creating a new vaudeville. Here, a cheery doctor with a mysterious repetitive speech pattern becomes more puzzling than a woman’s strange abdominal sensation.

​The title story, "Can I HAVE A HUG FIRST?" follows a dance teacher tormented by the chaotic world outside her ballet studio. After a harrowing walk through Providence, dodging falling tree limbs and out-of-control cars, she encounters a clown who is actually her tenant in need of legal help. The more she tries to distance herself from this desperate and enigmatic woman, the more their worlds collide, leading them in unexpected directions.

Can I Have a Hug First? by Mary Paula Hunter is a beautifully heartfelt memoir that delves into the complexities of motherhood, caregiving, and the emotional depth that comes with being a parent to a special-needs child. This book offers readers an honest, introspective view into the author’s life as she navigates the unpredictable yet profoundly rewarding experience of raising her son, Sam, who has Down syndrome.

Hunter writes with raw candor and a refreshing sense of humor, inviting readers to share in her joys, struggles, and the daily hurdles that come with her unique role. The title itself, *Can I Have a Hug First?*, is a tender nod to the warmth and love Sam brings into her life—reminding readers of the simple, yet deeply meaningful moments that can make even the most challenging situations feel worthwhile.

One of the most striking aspects of this memoir is the author’s ability to capture her son’s vibrant personality and the strength of their bond. Through the lens of Hunter’s personal journey, readers gain insight into the resilience required of parents who face societal expectations and the lack of resources for families with special-needs children. Hunter’s candid reflections on these obstacles not only raise awareness but also shine a light on the resilience and unwavering love that keep her going.

The narrative is both intimate and universal, making *Can I Have a Hug First?* resonate with a broad audience. It’s a touching portrayal of how Hunter redefines success, happiness, and fulfillment through her relationship with her son, ultimately finding beauty in the challenges and rewards of their journey together.

In summary, *Can I Have a Hug First?* is a moving, thought-provoking read that offers both an honest perspective on the demands of caregiving and an inspiring testament to the power of unconditional love. Hunter's story is an invitation to embrace the moments that truly matter, reminding us all that sometimes, all we need is a hug first.