Perfect Picture Book Friday: Big Bear Hug

Title: Big Bear Hug

Author & Illustrator: Nicholas Oldland

Publisher: Kids Can Press, 2009

Juvenile Fiction (Ages 3 to 9)

Theme/Topics: Bears, Environment, Conflict Resolution

Opening: There once was a bear so filled with love and happiness that whenever he roamed the forest and came across another living thing, he would give it a hug. Everywhere he wandered, the bear shared his love hug by hug.

Synopsis: (from Quill & Quire, Amazon.ca): This first picture book by artist and filmmaker Nicholas Oldland is a warm-hearted fable for the very young. Issues of conservation, confrontation, and love for all living things are spun together in the humorous and charming story of a bear who loves to hug everything -- even creatures that other bears might be inclined to eat or attack. When this affectionate, tree-loving bear encounters a man with an axe looking to cut down one of the oldest, tallest, and most beautiful trees in the forest, the bear's mood changes, but he quickly realizes that non-violent action may be just as effective as angry confrontation.

Why I Like This Book: Actually, I LOVE this book! Being a vegetarian and quiet environmentalist, its non-violent, loving approach to a sadly common problem (cutting down our forests) immediately appealed to me. The illustrations are simply done in soft greens, blues, greys and browns, which gives a feeling of peacefulness to the book. The language is also simple, but charming and to the point. As one Amazon reviewer commented, "This book is adorable and has such a perfect message, especially for a budding young Buddhist - love not war." 

Resources: 

Click on the pic for a YouTube reading

EEK (Environmental Education for Kids) has a ton of great links!

Deep Space Sparkle has a great art lesson inspired by Kevin Henke's picture book Old Bear:

Click here to see more Perfect Picture Books.

Sending big bear hugs your way .... and hoping your weekend is wonderful!