  | Bearnard's book (Bearnard) Author: Underwood, Deborah | |
| Price: $21.88 | ||
Summary:
When Bearnard gets an invitation to be in a book, it's a dream come true! But as he reads up on what starring in a book might actually entail, he considers if he's not quite the right bear for the part. With the help of his friend Gertie, Bearnard discovers that to shine in his story, he just needs to be himself.
| Illustrator: | Saburi, Misa |
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: LG Reading Level: 2.30 Points: .5 Quiz: 503260 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (12/15/18)
School Library Journal (00/06/19)
Booklist (06/01/19)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 06/14/2019 - Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Booklist - 06/01/2019 Bearnard’s dream is coming true: The Queen of Storybook Land has invited him to be in a book! He envisions himself as a knight or astronaut and pictures delighted children reading his story in school, before bed, and even upside down on the playground. His joy quickly turns to doubt, however, when he realizes that he’s not sure what the book will be about. What if he has to float? (Bearnard can’t float.) What if he has to make a mess? (He hates messes.) As he prepares to face alarming scenarios inspired by other famous storybook bears, Bearnard’s goose friend Gertie cheers him on. Saburi’s charming Photoshop illustrations offer a colorful glimpse into Bearnard’s internal struggle and his ultimate triumph as he learns that he only needs to be brave enough to be himself. This latest from Underwood (Interstellar Cinderella, 2015) is a gentle take on overcoming anxiety that makes an excellent option for story time as it is sure to entertain and engage young listeners. - Copyright 2019 Booklist.
School Library Journal - 06/14/2019 PreS-Gr 1-At first, Bearnard is thrilled to receive a letter from the Queen of Storybook Land, inviting him to be in a book. The young bear loves the idea of children reading about him and has lots of ideas for his story. The more he thinks about it, however, the more anxious he becomes regarding what will be expected of him, and fear of the unknown begins to overwhelm him. Adults may need to connect references to other "bear" books such as Winnie-the-Pooh, Paddington, and The Three Bears, but even without that context children will laugh and sympathize with Bearnard's attempts to learn new skills. Gertie, Bearnard's duck friend, models ways that friends can help each other. She talks to Bearnard, distracts him with other activities, and helps him practice to get ready. The cheerful digital illustrations keep the tone light and include visual references to other stories, as well as a fun cover "meta-illustration" of Bearnard holding Bearnard's Book. VERDICT The story's reassuring message to be yourself because you are enough is presented in a humorous, non-didactic manner.-Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA - Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
