The Bear Must Go On by Dev Petty - ADVISABLE

The Bear Must Go On by Dev Petty, illustrated by Brandon Todd. PICTURE BOOK. Philomel Books (Penguin Random House), 2020. $18. 9781984837479

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Woodland animals are planning a show and Bear declares that instead of being on stage he will be the note taker and help them organize the production. While Bear took notes he hummed a little song. On the night of the performance all the animals realized they prepared the props and treats, but they never prepared a show. Bear summons his courage and sings his song.

This story is not quite charming enough to hold its ground as a fun picture for all young readers, but it very well may appeal to shy readers who need to see that others experience the same feelings they have. The book is gentle with shyness and doesn’t make it a negative trait. It effectively conveys the message that doing scary things, even if we are shy, is a way to grow and connect.  

Jen Wecker, HS English Teacher