Sugar Glider??

Ok, well my brother just got a hamster. (adorable, I know!) So I was thinking, I want a pet too. I would like something bigger than a hamster (NOT A RAT) but I heard bunnies were nasty. I want something that will let me play with it and hold & cuddle it. I heard about sugar gliders. Are they friendly?? Do they need a lot of space? Are they very messy or mean?? I want an animal that will let me play with it, but it wont make my room smell terrible. Any ideas?? If you have, or know some one who has a sugar glider, please give me all of the info you can!! Thanks so much!