Sailor Bear
Martin Waddell, ill. Virginia Austin
Published by Walker
0-7445-3150-0, £3.99
This book chronicles Small Bear's adventures as he bravely tries to solve the two major problems of being lost and having no one to play with. The recurring 'Now what shall I do?' ensures the reader's total involvement in his predicaments and when, eventually, a very sad Small Bear is forced to 'give up' the most poignant part of the book is reached. Hopeless, alone and silent, printed words also cease as Virginia Austin's vivid illustrations continue the tale alone for two double-pages. Thankfully there's the contrast of a happy ending. A sad/happy story which infants loved and independent readers will enjoy for themselves.
Reviewed in BfK No. 87 (July 1994) by Gill Roberts (GR)
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