Bear Sees Colors

July 14, 2014
A walk through the woods provides ample opportunities for spotting colors in Bear and Mouse’s latest adventure. “Mouse and bear are walking;/ they are chitter-chatter-talking./ So much for them to do./ And the bear sees...” begins Wilson, as the animals appear against a white backdrop; both the open-ended rhyme and a pair of blue dragonflies hint at what awaits after the page turn. The next spread is a riot of blue, with Bear splashing in a river while flowers, fish, butterflies, and fruit offer readers many opportunities to “spy blue with Bear.” Though Wilson’s rhymes can be a tad herky-jerky, Chapman’s vibrant acrylics give children plenty to pore over. Ages 3–7.

January 1, 2015

PreS-This wonderful, rhyming book for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers is awash in color: "Blue flowers by the trail. Blue berries. Blue Pail. Blue, blue EVERYWHERE!" The audiobook, as a stand-alone offering, cannot possibly convey the essence of the book (S. & S., 2014), which delivers brilliant color along with a sense of exploration, discovery, and exuberance. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers who are learning colors will need to actually see the colors so beautifully rendered on the printed pages, as they learn to identify them and recognize other similarly colored objects. John McDonough's grandfatherly voice, measured and expressive, hangs on a suspenseful note just before each page is turned. Use the audio and printed version of this book simultaneously to fully engage young readers/listeners by providing a wonderful visual and listening experience.-Mary Oluonye, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

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