A review by readmayahread
The Last Bear by Hannah Gold

adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

This book is an example of a well-written Middle-grade book and it is certainly a worthy recipient of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize and The Blue Peter Book Award. 

April is a wonderful main character. Her kindness, sensitivity and intelligence will motivate young readers to be like her. Her friendship with Bear, though it may sound rather fantastical, is a beautiful and endearing one. 

As an adult, I would rate the book 4.5 stars but I would have loved it even more if I were to have read it as a child. The writing is simple but full of meaningful messages.

Highly recommended for Middle-graders, perhaps to be read with their parents or teachers. The book provides many interesting topics to be discussed including familial relationships, friendship and the importance of caring for the environment.