"Bear is a bold explorer.
Bear is a bookworm.
Bear is an artist.
Bear is a bear covered in chalk.
Bear is a bear full of love."
A live - and huge - bear seems a strange gift for a young child, doesn't it? This particular bear becomes an exceptional friend and companion. From the beginning, the two are inseparable. Although Bear is often stunned by the assorted uses the child finds for him, he remains loyal and loving. Every request is met with a willingness to be part of the adventure; snack, tissue, pillow, fancy lady, pirate, ghost. All roles are handled with aplomb.
Any threat to the child's well-being is handled with love; every new task is welcome and affords more time together. As the young girl grows, so does Bear's heart. He loves unconditionally and with patient kindness. Bear remains the same (if a touch bedraggled) as life goes on. The girl attends university, and Bear becomes a complication. Too soon for Bear, and sadly, he is packed away in a box where he fades into darkness. What will happen now?
Surprise! Once remembered, he is loved all over again.
The text is rhythmic and full of magic. Dan Santat uses watercolor, pencil and Adobe Photoshop to design warm, friendly images of the two as they grow and change. White space on many of the spreads ensure that full attention is given to their many affectionate capers. Aah! Stuffies - what a special place they hold in the hearts of their children.
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