In this gorgeous tale, readers follow Mouse from the warmth of his mother’s embrace, learning and growing through seasons to a time which seems somewhat full-circle. Bear’s place in the story is clever with a sense of wonder and anticipation. I adore the beautiful language used to describe Mouse’s first feelings of love, excitement, fear and more; they set the scene both emotionally and environmentally.
There is perfect unity between the text and the stunning, loose, textured artwork. I love how the colour palette beautifully emerges over seasons, working with illustrations that convey nature, weather, emotions and endearing character details.
Bear Was There is a gorgeous wholesome story which would be perfect to share with a loved one cuddled in a chair, or to learn from and analyse in a classroom setting. The beautiful high-quality cover and thick pages are the icing on the cake for this one!
Sally Anne Garland is an Author Illustrator based in the UK, two of her other books include Percy and His Amazing Box of Disguises and Fiddlesticks!.
Title: Bear Was There
Author/Illustrator: Sally Anne Garland
Publisher: New Frontier, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 March 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781925594935
For ages: 3 – 6
Type: Picture Book
