I fell in love with Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman several years ago. I love Bear and all his loyal friends of the forest. This book is one of my favorites for story time. I have used this book for bear themed story time as well as owls and friendship. The illustrations by Jane Chapman have so much detail this book can be read over and over with much discussion on each page. The entire BEAR series is delightful!

One of my favorite of the Bear books by Karma Wilson. I used this one for an owl-themed storytime. Beautiful illustrations and a gentle message make for a winner!

SUMMARY: Bear hears a new sound in the forest. At first he thinks it is one of his friends, but one by one his friends show up. They all wait in anticipation for this new friend to show himself. When he does, they all go swimming to have fun.

ILLUSTRATIONS: As with all of the Bear stories, this pictures are lush, colorful, cozy, friendly and fun.

THE GOOD: It is wonderful the way Bear and his friends circle around this newcomer and make him feel at home, especially since he is shy. There is a feeling of anticipation as the reader waits to see who will appear as the new friend.
THE NOT AS GOOD: This story does not have the same energy as the other Bear books. The rhyming and the activity of the characters are less exciting. The animals are mostly standing around waiting. Even though I didn't enjoy this book as much, it is still a sweet story of friendship.

AGE RECOMMENDATION: Ages 3-6

has a cute story line liked by a three-year-old.

Love the suspense of this story