BEARS AND A BIRTHDAY
From the Bears on Chairs series
by Shirley Parenteau ; illustrated by David Walker
Get ready for a very special party!
“The makings for / a cake are there. / The recipe’s ready. / Where are the bears?” Parenteau’s four furry friends are sweet as pie and ready to bake a cake—but for whom? It just might be for Big Brown Bear, who is having a birthday. Rhythmic text bounces along as Yellow, Calico, Fuzzy and Floppy mix and measure while following a recipe. Gentle and full of charm, this is a nice selection for toddlers and very young readers, who will appreciate the clear story, repetition and obvious affection shared among the lovable characters. Warm acrylic illustrations in a slightly-brighter-than-pastel palette show the round, appealing young bears as they wrap a present and don festive party hats. But wait, there’s more! “The four bears shout, / ‘Surprise, Big Bear!’ / Here’s why we / were busy in there!” Readers familiar with the series will be happy to revisit these good friends, while those new to the furry foursome will have a satisfying surprise in store.
Preschoolers will enjoy this very festive celebration
. (Picture book. 2-5)