Five Bears
Whilst on a walk through the forest, Bear meets another bear. Other Bear is different, but says hello and the two bears wander along together at different paces, thinking their own thoughts when they meet a new bear. Grunty Bear joins the other two as they continue on their way. Next they meet Very Big Bear who decides the others are friendly and feeling a little lonely, decides to follow along. When they meet Stuck Bear, the four bears work together to help and decide that although they are very different, they can all be friends.
There is something instantly appealing about a book with bears in it! In this story, there are five very different bears and Catherine Rayner’s stunning illustrations capture the individuality of each perfectly. But this is not your usual bear story!
As each bear meets the next, their reactions are awkward, suspicious and even hostile. Apart from ‘Very Big Bear’, no description is offered in the text, but the illustrations clearly show their physical differences. The First Bear- ‘a very nice bear by all accounts, but a bear all the same’- is instantly on the defensive when he meets Other Bear. He speaks ‘suspiciously’ and ‘warily’ although Other Bear offers a ‘How do you do?’ and ‘Have a nice day!’. These pleasantries disarm First Bear who decides to follow Other Bear and the two wander on together. Perfect for using with any age group, the story encourages discussions about how we perceive difference as well as considering how to respond in social situations. The apparent simplicity and repetition of the story belie the importance of the story as a starting point for conversations about inclusivity, individuality, initial actions and reactions and friendship. The bears are also gender neutral.
In addition to this, the carefully researched illustrations are perfect for inspiring children to find out more about the different types of bears in the world.
Can’t recommend this one highly enough!
Five Bears Catherine Rayner
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529051278
You can read my review of ‘Arlo the Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep’ here.
