A bear story that captures the atmosphere of an old shop and the wish of a boy.
It is Harry’s birthday, and he wishes for “a most particular kind of bear”. At Mr B’s House of Bears, the boy meets an elderly shopkeeper, who is delighted to offer any bear from a woolly to a scarcely-any-hair-there-bear. Honestly, Harry admits that he looks for an adventurous bear with whom he can share his experiences, and thanks to Mr B, he finds not just a toy but a lifelong friend.
The Forever Bear explores the timeless theme of friendship (read another review on the topic, Max and Bird) and the value of old-fashioned shops on the high street. With its inviting cover in red and gold and a vintage font for the title, this rhyming story will bring much joy to young children who will identify with the idea of having a soft toy for a lifetime. The mixed-media illustrations are delightful and support the text with their cosiness, as Pippa Curnick successfully employs a festive, wintery palette with a playful use of light and shadow. Her use of panels creates a dynamic effect, helping the story move at a fast pace, and readers become part of the boy’s adventure that blurs the line between play and reality. Typical of Lu Fraser’s rhyming style, The Forever Bear is no exception and would suit children between 2 and 5 perfectly for read-aloud sessions.
A charming picture book that pairs nostalgia with striking, rich art.
Further Information:
If you loved The Forever Bear, check out more information about its author and illustrator:
Looking for more cosy stories? I’ve reviewed The Best Christmas Present, a perfect friendship-themed Christmas picture book for the EYFS.
Other Books by Lu Fraser:
The Stats:
- Title: The Forever Bear
- Author and Illustrator:
- ISBN: 978 14088 9785 0
- Publication Date: 2025
- Page Count: 32
- Publisher: Bloomsbury
- Recommended age: 2-5
- Categories/Topic: friendship, bears, old-fashioned shops
Where to Find it:
