Finding Bear

March 1, 2024
A sequel that rekindles a beautiful friendship. April and her father have left the Arctic Circle and now live in an area that's "hustling, bustling, and jostling every crowded minute of the day," where she struggles to adjust. Upon learning that Bear, her polar bear companion from The Last Bear (2021), is in danger, she rushes back to Svalbard. As it turns out, Bear needs her help to save his cub from starvation. To do so, April battles the hazardous Arctic climate and makes rash decisions, disregarding her dad's concerns for her safety. April's survival skills are inexpert, and some of her decisions are dangerous, but she bravely endures life-or-death circumstances. Ultimately, she succeeds in rescuing the cub, whom she names Peanut, and rediscovering her Arctic home in Longyearbyen. Bear provides April with actual bear hugs and becomes a sounding board for her struggles outside the Arctic. April, who reads white, resonates with animals more than her human peers. The narrative sensitively addresses climate change, wildlife biology, and related subjects through informative content that's woven into the dialogue. April's father is an absent afterthought, and April navigates the tundra independently. Still, her dad and his girlfriend make significant life changes to support her happiness. While some elements are far-fetched, the story validates youth activism as a worthy pursuit. Pinfold's haunting illustrations add richness to the atmosphere. An empowering, optimistic read for animal lovers and environmentally savvy tweens. (map, resources and further reading) (Adventure. 9-13)

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April 19, 2024

Gr 3-7-In this sequel to The Last Bear, April is still concerned about the plight of polar bears and other problems in the Arctic. Her efforts to warn people about the dire situation have so far been thwarted. She worries if her bear is okay as she anxiously awaits emails for up-to-date information from the Polar Institute. When she receives news that a polar bear has been shot and injured in Longyearbyen, she is sure that it is her bear. She convinces her dad to return to Svalbard and to Longyearbyen. April needs to draw on her inner strength to survive the harshest place on earth-and the small, furry surprise she encounters along the way. Readers will be inspired by April's resolve as she traverses the Arctic climate and ecosystems, and be highly entertained by this adventure story. This beautiful book will inspire readers to see the Arctic, to be moved by the power of love and the dancing northern lights. Pinfold's detailed grayscale illustrations adorn the text both as spot art and full pages, enhancing the plot and character dynamics. VERDICT A worthy sequel with lush artwork and plenty of action.-Lisa Gieskes

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