A Gentle Exploration of Life’s Little Lessons: A Review of The Bear and the Moon
The moment I laid eyes on The Bear and the Moon by David L. Harrison and illustrated by Cátia Chien, I knew I was in for something special. Its vibrant cover drew me in, but it was the promise of both whimsy and depth in the story that held my attention. As someone who cherishes books that grip the heart while making us giggle, I couldn’t wait to dive into this delightful tale.
At its core, The Bear and the Moon follows a bear cub who stumbles upon a bright red balloon—a seemingly simple twist that leads to profound reflections on friendship, loss, and self-acceptance. When the balloon pops, the bear’s world crumbles, mirroring the feeling of losing a friend. The accompanying sentiment, “Bad bear, he thought. Bad, bad, bear,” struck a chord with me. It’s shocking how easily we succumb to self-doubt and negative self-talk, even at a young age. However, this beautiful narrative doesn’t leave us in despair. The bear’s encounter with the moon transforms the story, as the moon gently reassures him, “Good bear. Kind bear. Don’t worry, bear.” This powerful moment serves not only to comfort the bear but also offers a gentle reminder for children and adults alike: kindness towards ourselves is paramount.
Chien’s illustrations are truly a feast for the eyes. With a distinct style that feels liberated from the rigidity of traditional narrative structures, each page flows like a gentle breeze. The bear is illustrated with a fuzzy, soft quality, almost like a giant scribble—perfectly encapsulating the carefree spirit of childhood. Chien’s comic background shines through in the dynamic way the bear interacts with his environment, upping the playfulness of the narrative. I found myself chuckling at the bear tumbling “into a furry puddle” and smirking at his candid declaration about the “spot where I sit on the pot.” These small details inject life and laughter into the book, showcasing Burgess’s vibrant and engaging language.
Even as an adult, I found profound takeaways in Harrison’s writing. The book not only entertains but is also an incredible starting point for discussions about anxiety and self-acceptance with young readers. Moreover, it serves as a warm hug for anyone grappling with self-doubt.
As a proud Caldecott Winner of 2020, The Bear and the Moon undoubtedly deserves its accolades. It’s more than just a children’s book; it’s a soothing balm for anyone who needs a reminder of the importance of kindness—both to others and oneself.
This book is a perfect read for caregivers wanting to delicately tackle heavy emotions with their young ones. But really, it’s a lovely read for anyone who cherishes a well-crafted story that leaves a lingering warmth in the heart. I walked away from this delightful tale feeling lighter and thoroughly enchanted, a gentle reminder of the beauty in both friendship and self-acceptance.
If you find yourself seeking a book that stirs laughter, reflection, and warmth, pick up The Bear and the Moon. I promise it will resonate deeply, leaving you with a renewed sense of kindness—both for yourself and those around you.