Reviews

Bears Make the Best Reading Buddies by Carmen Oliver

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hannahskidlit's review

funny fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

BEARS MAKE THE BEST READING BUDDIES
Written by Carmen Oliver
Illustrated by Jean Claude
2016; 33 Pages
Genre: picture book, children's

(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.)

★★★★

When Mrs. Fitz-Pea assigns her class for reading buddies, Adelaide tells her she already has one. Her reading buddy is a bear and she explains why bears make the best reading buddies. I loved the illustrations by Jean Claude and enjoyed this cute stories. When books are about books - what is not to like?

k (My Novelesque Life)

bbckprpl's review

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5.0

Read & Reviewed for CBR 8: here

pib003's review

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2.0

This jumped from being abstract to concrete wayyy to many times. I think this would just confuse young readers. Also didn't love that the book has diverse representation on the inside covers (for no reason?) but they weren't actually included in the story.

readingthroughtheages's review

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3.0

Would make a fun read aloud at the beginning of the school year.

jshettel's review

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4.0

Super cute book about a reading buddy who happens to be a bear.

hsquared's review

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3.0

When Adelaide brings in a giant Nordic-sweater-clad bear as her reading buddy, her teacher and fellow students are a little unsure—terrified might be a better word. Adelaide then proceeds to enumerate the many qualifications of a bear as a reading partner. Though a few are definitely bear-specific (like a super snout for sniffing out great stories, or a pot of honey for minor book repairs), most are excellent suggestions for anyone hoping to encourage a new reader. Adelaide and her bear snuggle together in a reading tent, tackle difficult words, and “clamber to new heights” as they discover new books. Her bear offers “super-sensitive” ears for listening, “bear hugs” for encouragement, and roars of approval. The flat, jewel-toned illustrations depict the challenges of learning to read as a joyous adventure—especially when tackled with a good partner. The large pages with bold illustrations and engaging text make this an excellent read aloud—perfect for a storytime on the pleasures of reading.

*Review copy from Children's Literature Database

wordnerd153's review

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3.0

Felt a little forced at times, but could be a good read aloud to spark discussion with students about what they should be mindful of when reading with a partner.