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Parents' Guide to

Bear Is a Bear

By Carrie Kingsley, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 3+

Gorgeous illustrations and warm message of love over time.

Book Jonathan Stutzman Picture Book 2021
Bear Is a Bear Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

In BEAR IS A BEAR, a young girl's stuffed animal friend is more than just a bear. He is her protector, her fellow explorer, a pirate, a bookworm, a scientist, and a dreamer. But most of all, he is full of love. His love is constant, even as her life changes and he fades into the background -- but then emerges again, full of love and friendship, when she's in a new phase of her life.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Dan Santat's gorgeous, colorful illustrations are the first thing readers will notice about this beautiful book, and Jonathan Stutzman's kind words bring warmth and love to each page. Bear Is a Bear is a wonderful way for young kids to see their feelings of love and attachment to beloved stuffed animals brought to life, and to know that these friends can be with them their entire lives.

The words are simple, rhythmic, and combine realities of life with kids' imaginary life with their stuffed animals, and the illustrations capture facial expressions perfectly. This is a great read-aloud book, especially at bedtime.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the girl's relationship to her stuffed animal in Bear Is a Bear. Which stuffed animals do you bring with you? Which one would be the one to join you as a scientist, an explorer, an artist, a protector?

  • Ask your grown-up which stuffed animal friends meant the most to them when they were your age.

  • What other books about special friendships have you read? Which are your favorites?

Book Details

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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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