I received a fantastic small novel by Emily Flake last week for Christmas. Her book, That Was Awkward: The Art and Etiquette of the Awkward Hug, explains the array of awkward hug types. Separated into categories of relationships, business, and family, these hugs are relatable to all and make you cringe thinking about them. At the same time, the relatability of each description makes the book quite fun to read.  
This book is also extremely sharable. Because of its brevity and interesting cartoon representations of each hug, the book can be shared with a group of friends or family members as conversation starters. Flake’s descriptions are vivid enough to make me recall many an awkward hug like the “awkward coffee date” hug, or an unnerving “hallway colleague” hug.  
The piece is minimalist in description and length, but overflows with wit and powerful descriptions. Flake’s tone and voice through each hug description sounds like the same conversations I have when out to lunch with friends. This is a fun and fast read to enjoy while ringing in the New Year – especially since no one has been able to hug each other for nine to ten months. 
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