picture books, illustrated, autumn, bears, storytelling, patience, friendship,

My dog's name is Bear so I couldn't wait to read this book. I loved it because of how the artist captured the expressions of the bear and the writer wrote so that we could understand the bear's gentleness. I especially love it because the face of the bear resembles my sweet dog. ( )

Another lovely, sweet and gentle read aloud. Bear is a kind and gentle friend. Love the Steads and their charming books. ( )

Great to spark storytelling and to discuss seasons and hibernating. ( )

Bear has a story to tell - he just needs an audience. But by the time he's found one, he's forgotten his story ("winter is a very long time for a bear to remember")...so his audience suggests one. And it just so happens that it's this one - the one we've just read. The first line and last line are the same: "It was almost winter and Bear was getting sleepy." Elegant. ( )