"Then he slowed. There was Mouse, sitting
by himself on a stump. He didn't look like
the usual Mouse. His tiny shoulders were
slumped; his head was low.
"Mouse?" said Bear.
"Oh, it's you," said Mouse."
Bear is one of our favorite-ever characters! The fact that Bonny Becker's earlier six books about Bear and Mouse are on constant repeat for reading with my granddaughters, even as they get older, keeps me on the lookout for a new one. What a thrill to learn that this fall publishing season brings this one, and how happy I am to have received my copy from Evan at PRH! Thanks always Evan for your support of the blog and interested readers.
Bear is in a quandary. He has been waiting and waiting for Mouse to knock on his front door. They are supposed to be off on a fall picnic, and Mouse always comes to Bear's house to begin a new adventure. Where can he be? Bear waits until he begins to worry. Then, he is off to meet Mouse on the path to Bear's house. Once outside, it is evident that it is a very windy day. Might that be the problem? Bear braves on until he spots Mouse sitting gloomily on a tree stump. Mouse explains that he is sad. Mouse in NEVER sad; what can it be? Mouse explains that his sadness comes in the wake of seasonal changes. The leaves, the birds, the flowers ... all are disappearing.
Bear puts on a cheery face and does what he can to help Mouse feel livelier. Then, as Mouse relates all those things that are making him feel so sad, that sadness alters Bear's anticipation for the picnic they were planning. He decides to go home and be sad by the fire. Before he can leave, he slips on the muddy ground and falls, which makes Mouse giggle with delight. Bear is not impressed with Mouse's response and tells him so.
Stomping moodily through the woods with Mouse riding on one of Bear's very dirty feet takes the two straight to Bear's house where they enjoy a cleansing bath, a soothing cup of tea, some delectable snacks - and a warm fire where they can be suitably sad together. Or are they?
Kady MacDonald Denton has a special talent for keeping these characters full of love for each other, while also filling her spreads with expression and details that constantly encourage children to take a careful look at what is happening on every page. Look for drama, humor, and everlasting affection as you share this book with those you love.
No comments:
Post a Comment