Introducing...

A story about learning to trust food—one sense at a time

Follow Hugo the Hippo as he sniffs, touches, and tastes his way to discovering new foods—one brave bite at a time.

Learning to Trust Food — One Sense at a Time

Trying new foods can feel scary for kids, and stressful for parents. Hugo’s Brave Bite turns that challenge into a playful adventure. Through Hugo’s journey, children learn that exploring food with their senses: smelling, touching, tasting, helps them grow in bravery and trust.

This story is perfect for:

Kids who are picky eaters or hesitant trying new foods
Families navigating picky eating
Parents who want mealtime to feel calmer and more positive
Therapists, teachers, and caregivers looking for a supportive tool

What You’ll Find in Hugo’s Brave Bite

A colorful, engaging story kids love to read again and again
Gentle introduction to sensory food exploration
Relatable moments for children who feel nervous around new foods
A positive, empowering message about bravery and trust
A parent letter from the author, a licensed OT feeding therapist

Meet Charlene

Charlene Kurkjian, OTR/L, is a Georgia-based pediatric occupational therapist and feeding specialist with more than two decades of experience helping children and families navigate mealtimes with confidence. She is the founder of Happy Hungry Hippos, a pediatric feeding clinic and online resource for families, where she combines her professional expertise with a deep passion for empowering parents. Married with four children and seven grandchildren, Charlene finds joy in family life, faith, and exploring the outdoors.

The Story Behind Hugo

Want to know what inspired Hugo’s journey?

Charlene shares the heartfelt story behind the book and the children who inspired it.

📖 Read: Why I Wrote Hugo’s Brave Bite

What Parents are Saying

"This book was very enjoyable and helpful to grandchild. Being a picky eater, this book was just what one of my kids needed for their child. After having Hugo's Brave Bite, my grandchild felt really good about "being brave" and trying different foods. She went through the steps in the book of; feeling the food, noticing texture, tasting, etc. Now, when I stop by, she wants me to "feel her muscles" in her arms since she's getting stronger from eating well."

Kathy J., Grandparent

"As a mom and registered dietitian, I loved reading this book to my young kids! The story of Hugo trying new foods with no pressure and using all of his senses can make a big impact for picky eaters! Food exploration made fun and very beautiful illustrations!"

Chelsea O., Parent

“What a delightful tale of Hugo the picky eater and how he was gently guided into becoming Hugo the brave. Well done, Charlene, for introducing the concepts of feeding therapy and food exploration in such a fun and digestible way.”

Andrea Lauer Rice, Parent

“Hugo’s Big Bite beautifully reflects the warmth, wisdom, and clinical expertise Charlene brings to feeding therapy. A gentle, hopeful story for families navigating the big feelings around new foods.”

Amy Balkin, MS, OTR/L, C/SIPT, Pediatric Occupational Therapist