Bear Came Along
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 5–6 · 2019 · Est. 2 min read-aloud

Bear Came Along

Written by Richard T. Morris · Illustrated by LeUyen Pham

A group of animals embark on a journey together along a river.

5.3/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 3,656 ratings
40 pages· 217 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud· ~260L
$18.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In a forest, a river discovers its adventurous spirit when a bear arrives. Joined by Froggy, Turtles, Beaver, Raccoons, and Duck, they embark on a journey downstream. Unaware of their need for each other, these unlikely companions find joy and camaraderie in their shared adventure. Will they realize the strength of their newfound community before the ride ends? Dive into this delightful tale of friendship and teamwork, where every twist in the river brings a new surprise.

"Beaver was born to captain; he knew exactly where to go, but he didn't know about the detours until . . . the raccoons dropped in."

— from the book

From the publisher

A cheerful and action-packed adventure about the importance of friendship and community from a successful author and illustrator duo!

Once there was a river flowing through a forest. The river didn’t know it was capable of adventures until a big bear came along. But adventures aren’t any fun by yourself, and so enters Froggy, Turtles, Beaver, Racoons, and Duck.

These very different animals take off downstream, but they didn’t know they needed one another until thankfully, the river came along.

This hilarious picture book and heartfelt message celebrates the joy and fun that’s in store when you embark together on a ride of a lifetime.

Awards

Caldecott Honor (2020)ALA Notable Children's Books (2020)
At a glance
Format
Hardcover
Pages
40
Words
217
Reading age
5–6
Audience
Picture
Lexile
~260L
Themes & topics
After the last page

Talk about it together

Each of the animals' lives is enriched by their connections with the other creatures. Who in your life makes your life richer, more exciting or more fulfilling? Do they know about their impact on you?

The illustrations in this book are incredibly expressive—even without the words, a trip through this book would be an exciting adventure! Try creating your own story to accompany the illustrations as you read through.

Inside the book

A peek between the covers

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.3

out of 7

“This high-spirited tale is a metaphor for life itself, and “Oh, what a ride” it is!”

Horn Book

Critic

“The simplicity of the text and the stylized, comical creatures belie the depth of the message that comes through for even the youngest of readers: We are all in this together, and our differences strengthen our unity. . . Outstanding art perfectly complements the text, showing the animals’ differing personalities while also using color, space, and patterns to create appealing scenery.”

Kirkus

Critic

“Text . . . bounces along with appealing repetition and rhythm, but it’s cleverly designed illustrations by Pham . . . that make this offering a standout choice for reading aloud.”

Publisher's Weekly

Critic

The author

More from Richard T. Morris

Explore Richard's bookshelf
The illustrator

More from LeUyen Pham

Explore LeUyen's bookshelf
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The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
2.1
F&P level
~I
AR points
0.5
AR interest level
LG
AR quiz
505245
Publication
Published
June 4, 2019
Publisher
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Edition
Language
English
Type
Picture Book
Text details
The text was set in 1790 Royal Printing, and the display type was hand-lettered.
Illustration details
The illustrations for this book were done in watercolor, ink, and gouache on hot press illustration board.
Identifiers
ISBN
9780316464475

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