More Blinkies and "Snow Bear"

Hi Everybody! Brrr...it's actually starting to get cold now in my part of the world. I was half-expecting to see snow on the Malahat. We can see the tippy-top of the small mountain range from our kitchen window. But nope! Not yet. If it's cold where you live then hopefully my blinkies will warm your hearts. It's Day 6 of my Christmas Blinkie giveaway:) You can grab this sweet little penguin and this cute elf by clicking on the images (it will take you to my design blog). It's also Perfect Picture Book Friday!  Susanna hosts this fun linky once a week. You can find TONS of other books on her blog.

Title: Snow Bear
Author: Jean Craighead George
Illustrator: Wendell Minor
Publisher: Scholastic, 2000
Intended Audience: 4 to 8
Theme/Topic: Inuit, Polar Bears, Family

Summary from Amazon: When Bessie decides to explore a frozen ice ship one morning, she finds a new playmate—a baby polar bear. Snow Bear and Bessie are instant friends, but Bessie’s brother and Snow Bear’s mother are worried. The grown-ups wait and watch the little ones play until something happens that will break up the happy pair. With simple text and lavish illustrations, this Arctic picture book will warm readers’ hearts.

I left my book at school so I don't have the opening lines for you :(

Why I Like It: This book totally reminds me of Blueberries for Sal. While the story is improbable (a child playing with a real live polar cub), it's still charming, winsome and full of drama. The paintings are exquisite and realistic. It also leads to great discussions about the similarities between bears and people (i.e., the love and desire to protect).

Links to Resources:

 Click image above to watch youtube video

The pics below are from the video. It's definitely worth showing to your class.

Artwork:

This cutie below is from Artventurous. I just had to grab it and update my post. I LOVE it! Be sure to pop over to this fabulous art blog. She's brand new and has some GREAT stuff!

Enjoy!