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40 pp.
| Simon/Beach Lane |
February, 2020 |
TradeISBN 978-1-5344-5269-5$17.99
|
EbookISBN 978-1-5344-5270-1
(2)
PS
This follow-up to Mad, Mad Bear! shows the ups, downs, and all the emotions in between as we watch Bear attend dance class for the first time. Bear has new leggings, new slippers, and a new pink tutu, all of which make our protagonist very, very glad. He warms up at home, smiling in the mirror, and leaping out the front door with a "WHEEEE!" When Bear arrives at the dance studio, his excitement turns to hesitation, and soon Bear is much less sure of himself. He looks around the room at the other dancers (all bears of different shades), and feels like he doesn't fit in. Is it because he traded his dance slippers for cowboy boots? Is it because he's wearing his pink tutu over his leggings, unlike the other (assumed) boy bear in the class? Whatever it is, all of Bear's fears melt away as the music starts and that good feeling returns. Gee's soft, cheery illustrations (rendered in black Prismacolor and colored digitally) and simple text make this an excellent choice for discussing the worry young children may experience when trying something new. Preschool audiences will relate to Bear, while also enjoying the visual treats the illustrations have to offer.
Reviewer: Hill Saxton
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
March, 2020