Common Sense Media Review
Gentle story keeps preschoolers absorbed.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
What happens when Little Sal and Little Bear mistakenly trade mothers? When Sal goes out with her mother to pick blueberries, a mix-up causes an unexpected adventure. Robert McCloskey's gentle, engaging story keeps preschoolers absorbed as Mrs. Bear meets Little Sal and Little Bear surprises Sal's mom. Today's audience, expecting color, might find the the black-and-white illustrations a little disappointing.
Is It Any Good?
This humorous, entertaining book for preschoolers is an easygoing tale with just enough suspense to make it interesting. Robert McCloskey's text and illustrations blend perfectly with the mix of characters to tell a story that tickles the imagination. The full-page illustrations make it easy for children to understand the emotions of the characters.
The idea of a little girl and a bear cub each following the wrong mother appeals to preschoolers' sense of humor. But beyond the entertainment value, the story provides some lessons for children. Subtly showing the kinship of humans and animals, McCloskey closely parallels the stories of Little Bear and Sal. This is an excellent read-aloud.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the events in the story. Why did Little Sal wander off and lose track of her mother?" and They also can talk about bears: Why do bears need to store food for the winter?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Robert McCloskey
- Genre : Family Life
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Penguin Group
- Publication date : December 31, 1969
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 2 - 4
- Number of pages : 55
- Last updated : March 4, 2020
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