The Perfect Bear

This book is a very special book. It is the perfect gift book for very special people. The marvelous writing of Gillian Shields is so well crafted. Her use of triplets in her descriptions makes this one the perfect read-aloud. The rhythmic phrases and choice of words are very poetic. I use it all the time for almost all grade levels!

This is a lovely story about a teddy bear who learns to love. The story centers on a little girl so it would be better for a girl. The pictures in the book are truly delightful and my girls love this book!

The illustrations in this book are some of the very best that I have ever seen, and the story was very emotional (to me). Even my young son understood perfectly what it is to love a toy for more than just being a material thing. While this book is meant for children, any adult who still has one or more stuffed "friend" from their childhood will appreciate it as well. On a much lighter note, Gillian Shields has recently written a very funny book, DogFish, about a boy who wants a dog, but has to make do with a goldfish. The illustrations in The Perfect Bear reminded me of another favorite in our house, Sonny's Dream: A story which teaches children how to conquer their fears. (Young Spirit Books), which is a story about a "real" bear who will inspire your children.