ONE TRUE BEAR

So far, no teddy bear has captured the heart of a destructive boy named Damian, but stalwart soldier Darcy Brewster of the Bear Force knows he has the right stuffing to be Damian’s One True Bear. Colorful illustrations show the dedicated Darcy at work as he endures poking, prodding, ripping and even being left outside, accompanied by Darcy’s stoic narration (“And I lived to see another day”). Darcy’s efforts are all worthwhile; eventually he does become Damian’s One True Bear by patiently explaining that he needs arms to hug Damian, stuffing to love him and fur to comfort him. All is well until Darcy is pushed under the bed where he lies forgotten. Years later, an adult Damian, now a rescue worker, seeks Darcy out and brings him to a new friend, and Darcy realizes that he isn’t the only one with the right stuffing. While not wholly original—the story brings to mind The Velveteen Rabbit, for example—this old-fashioned tale is sweet and charming and will bring enjoyment to many a child. (Picture book. 4-7)