Bears Barge in

Very highly recommended for family, school, and community library children's books collections, Bears Bare In combines picturebook story whimsy with practical, factual information for helping children of all ages to stay safe while experiencing and appreciating nature. Zack is a boy who lives in the forest along with bears and other wild woodland creatures. As Zack's human neighbors multiply, Zack finds bears invading his bathroom! When the neighbors discover that Zack's house guests have fur and fangs, he must find ways to make room for both his old animal friends and his new neighbors. Chris Bivins's vividly colored illustrations are a perfect showcase for Joni Sensel's lively, original, and imaginative story.

Bears Barge In is a book for young children about an adult problem--growth management and the preservation of space for wildlife. Ms. Sensel's use of rhyme creates a vivid picture of the plight of animals squeezed into smaller and smaller areas by the expansion of cities and towns. Anyone with kids will immediately understand young Zack's commitment to his furry friends as he tries to prove to his human neighbors that people and wildlife can coexist. His idealism is a fresh reminder of our responsibility to all the inhabitants of our planet, and perhaps plants a seed that will bloom someday in the adult minds of the book's readers. Beautifully illustrated, Bears Barge In is a great tool for teaching children about an important issue for our environment.

I just wanted to let everyone know about Bears Barge In because it's a sweet and moving story that makes you laugh but also makes you think. And the illustrations are so fun and incredible. Kids love animals, and in the book they can read and learn about real wild animals, and interact with them. Also I hope the story can teach parents to get along with wild animals as we more and more invade their world. But it's presented in such a fun way! I totally recommend this book for kids of all ages.