Reviews

Books Aren't for Bears by Mark Barry

rainbowbookworm's review against another edition

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5.0

In a time when people are trying to restrict access to books, it was heartwarming to see that it was the library that finally gave bear the access to the books he so desperately needed. It was also great that the illustrations contained so many books featuring bears, as I know how validating it can be to see yourself represented in print.

mehsi's review against another edition

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4.0

I received this book from Netgalley + the publisher in exchange of an honest review.


I just couldn’t resist. A book about a bear who finds a love for reading? YES please!

In this fabulous book we meet a bear with an adorable bowtie who is just wandering through the forest and then finds something special. A book! He is mesmerised and he has just the friend to help him out with what this fantastic thing is + help him actually be able to read it. And yes, that friend is an owl. Yep. A bit expected, I would so like to see another animal be the wise one for once. Back to the bear, after his long lessons he has a thirst for books now, and I loved that, though I also felt for him as finding books in a forest? Not that easy. I was curious how he would find more books to read!

Well, what happens next was both fun and I just wanted to yeet some snobbish people. Yep. Bear finds a way. But along the way he comes across some snobbish and mean people who think that Books aren’t for bears! I just wanted to hug that poor old bear and drag him home to my own collection! But thankfully, very thankfully, he comes across one place that is open to him and allows him all the books he wants! I was so happy that I was just clapping my hands in happiness! I loved the ending and I loved that he spread the bookish love~

The art was just fabulous and I love the style!

All in all, this is a perfect book for people (and animals) who love books and love it when someone discovers a love for it~

Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/

glindathegolden's review against another edition

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4.0

A great book to introduce libraries to young people. Kids will definitely enjoy the humour of bears journey and see themselves in him as well

jkjoy_books's review against another edition

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4.0

The narrative is well-written and is accompanied by good illustrations. This book does a wonderful job of introducing the idea of libraries and one's passion of reading.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review.

marisae's review against another edition

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5.0

Books aren't for bears, or are they??
Cute story that shares the love of reading with TK-2nd grade students. It sends the message that reading is for everyone.
The illustrations are enjoyable and this book would be perfect for the beginning of the school year.

palisca's review against another edition

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5.0

When Bear find a book in the woods he is instantly intrigued by the pictures and words so he enlists the help of his friend, Owl to teach him to read. Soon Bear cant get enough of books! He must have more! He travels into the big city and isn't welcome into various places that have books. He is told in each place that "Books aren't for Bears". Discouraged he is ready to give up until.... he is finally welcomed into a glorious place FILLED with books!

I loved this sweet book that not only encouraged the love of reading but all the inclusion of everyone. As a former Kindergarten teacher and current homeschool teacher I would use this book with my students, The illustrations were colorful and captivating. I would recommend this book for ages preschool through first grade.

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to review this book. these opinions are my own

dianaferree's review against another edition

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5.0

Very cute picture book. The pictures of woodland creatures and characters help keep the reader/listener engaged with the content. I love how the people in the book are all different shapes, sizes, colors and ages. A diverse base of human characters helps children find themselves in the story. I loved the little storm cloud over the bears head when his emotions were upset. The pacing was great. I could see this becoming a favorite read in a classroom or at home.

Thank you Capstone and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

waterviolite's review

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inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

saloniporwal's review against another edition

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5.0

Perfect book to instill a reading habit in your kids. If your child is already a nature person with an attraction towards animals, they will surely find a home with the beautiful animals of this book.

Apart from this, the author brings out the importance of libraries in our society and how wonderful they can be in providing quality books and reading spaces. I believe this is a story about identity, and shows children how to stand up for their wishes and go beyond societal norms.

books_withbri's review against another edition

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4.0

This was a such a cute read!

Bear has discovered his love for reading and goes on a journey to find more books!

The introduction of libraries is wonderful to young readers and the fun, bright colours throughout are eye catching! I thouroughly enjoyed this children’s book.