The Big Journey, written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Daniel Egneus. Bloomsbury Children's Books, Raincoast. 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"At first, Little Bear was very sad.

But then he remembered the flower. 

It smelled of the mountains, 
it smelled of the air, 
it smelled of the rivers. 

And he knew that he was bringing
part of the Old Place with him." 

As they feel the winds blow in the smell of change, Big Bear tells Little Bear that a long journey is ahead of them. He stresses the journey will be a big, BIG one. Little Bear has questions; Big Bear does his best to answer them. They will need to find a place where there is more to eat. Little Bear is reluctant. He wants to know where they are going, while he also worries that he might forget the Old Place once they leave. 

He wants to talk with Old Owl. Little Bear shares his worries about remembering. Old Owl suggests finding something that will last for a very long time. He next visits Old Badger, who suggests that when Little Bear gets tired from the traveling, he can think of something that makes him happy. A song sung by Big Bear could be the perfect thing to put a smile on Little Bear's face. Still, he has questions for Old Bear, who will not be making the journey with them. Little Bear says he will return, if Old Bear waits for him. A promise is made. 

Now armed with answers to his questions, their journey can begin. It is long, and sad, and very tiring. Remembering that song helps when he is so tired. On and on the two walk ... until they are lost! Now he recalls what Old Bear said about following footprints to help him find his way. They walk through forests and snow, and over mountains until they arrive at the New Place, there to find food, water and new friends. How wonderful is that? 

The beauty of the natural forest setting that is background to their journey will be of great interest to young readers. There is much to see as the seasons change and the long journey begins and ends. It is a story of hope, resilience, and learning to adapt to change written well and illustrated with great care. 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVOKb9IjeCP/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet