mehsi's review

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4.0

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


The second Bert and Frank book and this time Bert (our bear) is trying to ride a bicycle, but will it go right? Or not?

I was absolutely delighted when I spotted this book over at Netgalley. I had just recently (in November/October) finished the first book in Dutch and I was eager to get even more from this duo.

In this book we have lots of bicycles, some sad animals whose tails are not happy, a pond dive, and more. Because Bert is trying to bicycle! Frank is pretty good at it… but Bert? Bert, I think he just needs a better bicycle. Or side-wheels. You know the ones that kids have when they cannot ride it safely yet? I was curious to see what solution our duo would go for and I can honestly tell you that I was very much surprised at what happened next. Haha. I hadn’t expected that, but it was a sweet solution (though I am not sure about Frank’s body and agreeing to the plan). It made me laugh, it made me snicker, and I loved Frank’s perseverance.

But yeah, of course this isn’t a solution! But I loved what followed. And I loved that it was more the case of x rather than y. Yes, keeping it vague. You will have to read the book.

The ending, just like in the first Frank and Bert, was one that came out of the left field and I had such a laugh. XD

The art was fab once more. I loved how the friends were drawn, but also animals and surroundings. So fun~

All in all, I hope that this duo will have many more adventures, because I need more! I would recommend it! Perfect for kids that are learning how to use a bicycle.

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

katykelly's review

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5.0

Both a reassuring 'learning to ride' story and a lesson in friendship

Frank the fox tells us all about his friend's Bert's slight wobble with bikes. It's more than a slight wobble actually - he can't help but fall off or run into things, so it's a good thing they both wear helmets! Bert doesn't give up however but it's up to Frank to keep him motivated in the face of repeated setbacks.

Frank acts as parents as well as friend here, but in the end readers can see Bert making sure Frank isn't taking all the strain, that he sees progress, gains confidence, and can even help his friend in return.

Young ones will learn from this good lessons about bike riding not being something you can just excel out without practice, that you might fall off but you can get better if you try, and that your friends and family will support you as you keep at it.

Quite like the detailed fur on the animals, lines and curvy colours, with white backgrounds that don't take too much attention from the action. Not too wordy for a 3 year old, and a great reminder to return to for all those youngsters taking their first... pedals.

For ages 3-6.

With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.

b0oksm4rt's review

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4.0

Quick shoutout to @netgalley for giving me access to an advanced reader copy of this one!

I requested this one based on the absolutely gorgeous cover illustration and can say I was not disappointed!

The illustrations are consistently gorgeous and the simple story flows really well. They have made me want to get my colouring pens out.

Yes, it is aimed at 3+ year olds, but if we add another 21, it’s still pretty apt.

thenovelbook's review

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This very cute, funny storybook for children rewards close attention to the pictures, which get funnier the closer you look. It's a simple tale of Frank and Bert, two bike-riding friends in need of a little extra stability. Especially Bert, who is something of a disaster on wheels. Adults may find their antics chuckle-worthy as well. What I really liked was the book gets across a couple of points about helping friends out and trying to be careful, but the book keeps a pretty light touch and doesn't get overly moralistic about teaching lessons. The points are there, and they're amusingly embedded in a sweet, funny package.
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