Disclosure: I received this complimentary product (Bear Island) through Raincoast Books. Affliate links used in this review.
Oh my, do I have a tender, gentle story to share with you today. Grief is hard, and in Bear Island we see how one child found that grief shared, was grief able to heal. I invite you to check out Matthew Cordell’s picture book with me.
Taking a look at Bear Island
In Bear Island we are introduced to Louise and her Mom and Dad. And Charlie. Charlie who we don’t know much about except Charlie is no longer with them. Louise is sad, and angry, and what is she to do? Enter in the Island. A place perhaps that she used to go with Charlie.
Enter in … a sad and also angry bear.
And so the story unfolds. in a lovely picture book produced by Feiwel and Friends. 48 pages of a hardcover picture book to help young children deal with grief. Honestly though, I think it would be a good book to help any child find a way to deal with their sadness and perhaps anger at the loss of a loved one.
We aren’t told who the illustrator is, but the greens and browns used throughout complement the story fabulously.
The characters and illustrations aren’t hugely intricate but they do provide plenty of talking points. I love books the help me talk through ideas and potential with children. Can you imagine a bear bringing back a stick like a dog? I would giggle over such an idea with a youngster.
I am grateful to Raincoast books for providing me with this gentle picture book. The soft, leading language, combined with seeing the growth and healing happening was heart-lifting. This is a book I would want to keep on my bookshelves to save for a day when needed. I think it’s one that you’ll enjoy having on your shelves as well. It’s one you’ll want to save for a sorrow-filled day.
I really like the illustrations in this book. They look perfect for the story.
i thought they were