What a stunning and uplifting picture book by Apryl Stott. It’s her author and illustrator debut.
Bear is sad. Because of his size the forest animals are afraid of him and think he must be mean.
The front end pages echo this message and the second page of the book shows a sign on a tree that says,
“No Bears”.
Bear’s friend, Coco, who is a little girl, loves so many things about Bear that she can’t bear (haha) to have him be misunderstood. And so, the two set out to show everyone that Bear is indeed, a kind and gentle soul.
Their plan is to bake cookies to deliver to the animals. Coco remembers a saying that her Grandmother taught her,
“When life gets dark as winter’s night, share some kindness, bring some light”.
And so the duo sets off into the cold forest to bestow kindness to the woodland community. However, their good intentions are not met with enthusiasm. For one reason or another their treats are rejected.
But when Bear helps return a lost fawn to her mother, this unselfish act of giving, without thought of recognition or reward, is what proves kindness to the woodland animals.
One of the things that I enjoyed so much about this story is that it feels written for children. It spells out the ‘why’s’ so that a young reader will really understand Bear’s journey. Why he is misunderstood. Why he wants to be accepted. What he plans to do to rectify his situation. Why it doesn’t work. What finally works and why… I just know kids will be able to relate to Coco and Bear and see themselves on both sides of the situation. And therefore, learn how to show kindness.
Apryl Stott’s illustrations are warm and whimsical. The layout of the book and her style feels timeless and classic.
And the end pages at the back now show the woodland friends hanging a new poster on the tree. This one reads,
“When life gets dark as winter’s night, share some kindness, bring some light.”
Lovely?
The publisher has some great aides on their website under resources and downloads HERE
And Apryl has done fun and fantastic drawing exercises that kids will love HERE
Thanks so much for visiting today. Please stay safe and be well, everyone!
What a beautiful sentiment, story, and illustrations.
I’m glad that you think so, Lori. Me, too! Thanks for visiting us today.
I love the refrain and the illustrations. Requesting that the library add it to the collection.
It’s a cozy read for this time of year. Thank you, Kathleen!
What a beautiful book! I LOVE the cover, it draws me right in. The story makes me want to hang out and live in the book for quite a bit! Can’t wait to read it. Thanks for sharing with us. I’m going to request it from our library.
Hi Angie, I hope you enjoy the book!
Oh how I adore that Badger in his/her lovely stripey bathrobe!
He’s darling, isn’t he? Thanks for visiting PBB, Cathy!
Charming story and illustrations! I love how kids can pick up on the idea of empathy and friendship, too.
That’s true, Judy. Hopefully they will save the world!
What a sweet story and beautiful message -congrats!
I’m happy that you think so, Danielle! Thanks for visiting and commenting today!
Beautiful message! Beautiful art! ♥️ Thanks, Jennifer.
Thank you, Mary, for taking the time to visit our blog and comment today!
Oh my goodness I am going to have to order this one, I love it so much!!
I’m glad that you like it, Charlotte!
We all need a little kindness. And we all can identify with being misunderstood. What a wonderful story Apryl:)
Thank you for visiting, Sheri!
Mercy! What a gorgeous and special book!
Hi Kathy, it’s a lovely book! Nice to see you!
From the first page on, it does have that classic feel. Reminds me a bit of Jan Brett’s wonderful books.
Hi Jilanne, I thought the same about Jan Brett’s use of borders being similar to Apryl’s style. Just lovely.
What a beautiful book! This would make a lovely book for a special friend.
Hi Claire, a book is always a wonderful gift. This one would be lovely!
This has a beautiful look and sends a great message! Love it!
It sure does. Thank you, Kathy!
What a lovely book! I’m partial to bears anyway, but the colors and the “why’s” really add to its appeal. Thanks!
Thank you for visiting and commenting, Mary. Hope you like the book!
I love this book. I just ordered some for gifts.
I’m very happy to hear that you like the book Loreli!
We can never have enough books on kindness. Thank you.
Very true, Terri. Thank you!
Beautiful! And I agree with Terri that we can never have enough books on kindness. Well said.
❤️
I love the adorable illustrations and the beautiful story touched my heart. This is a lovely book that will appeal to both children and adults. Congratulations, Apryl!
Thank you for visiting and taking the time to comment today, Pamela!
Lovely, timeless message with complimentary art! Congratulations!
Indeed, Joan, thank you!
Simply beautiful.
It sure is, Vijaya. Thanks for visiting our blog!
This looks absolutely lovely!
What a sweet message and the illustrations are absolutely amazing. Thanks for sharing and congrats Apryl.