Thank You Bear
Starred Review.PreSchool-Grade 1—Bear has found something fantastic-a little box that Mouse will just love. But by the time Bear shows it to his friend, he is unsure of his gift's value, because everyone he has met along the way has pooh-poohed it as either too small, too ordinary, or better in someone else's hands. But Bear and Mouse aren't friends for nothing. Sure enough, Mouse agrees that the box is "the greatest thing ever." Bear's journey from euphoria to doubt to euphoria again is gently rendered. There is not a lot of detail in this book, but not a lot is needed. Pastels provide the backdrop for the text, while Bear and his detractors stand in contrast on a white page, carrying the story with their expressions and body language. Young listeners, particularly those who understand the value of leaves and stones and bottle caps, will love this book. They will hope that Bear will remain steadfast and trust in Mouse, who rewards Bear's thoughtfulness with the gratitude of a true friend. Absolutely charming.—Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.