Quick Booktalk
In this back-to-school story from the same series as The Little Kitten, Ollie follows a bear to his woodland school one night and learns not to be nervous about her own first day.
About the Illustrations
The sweet, gentle pictures are mainly done in black, white, and gray, with occasional bits of navy and gold foil. They capture the nighttime atmosphere in a way that feels quiet and peaceful, not spooky.
Readers Advisory
This could be a fun read-aloud at home for a child who is already anxious about attending school. I'd probably avoid reading it to a child who doesn't have any reservations about the first day because I wouldn't want to introduce a problem where there isn't one. The ideal age range is probably ages 3 to 5, which matches when most kids will begin their first school experiences.
Content Notes
This is a different take on the back to school story, and it takes a very gentle and supportive approach. It keeps a positive outlook on the idea of starting school and makes it fun by imagining what an animal school might be like. My kids are homeschooled, but they are fascinated by school, so they all enjoyed reading this one.
Disclosure
I received a review copy of The Little Bear from Paula Wiseman Books in exchange for an honest review.
