*Three Bears in a Boat by David Soman

This book is a “Best of the Best” pick from our Winter Book Fair. CLICK HERE to see more gift ideas!

*Three Bears in a Boat by David Soman. Dial Books for Young Readers, 2014. 40 pages.

• Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8
• Recommended for: Ages 0-8

“Once there were three bears, Dash, Charlie, and Theo, who lived by the sea.” And one day, these three are naughty little bears who break their mother’s prized blue seashell. Determined to right the wrong before their misdeed is detected, the siblings set sail to find another blue seashell. Misdirection, adventure, and danger draw the three together until they return empty-handed, knowing they must confess. A surprise awaits them, and their mother forgives her wayward children (“but they didn’t get any dessert”). Soman, co-creator of the popular Ladybug Girl books, has created a classic-feeling picture book with nicely done illustrations that will become a favorite family read-aloud. The bears’ appearance may remind readers of other lovable bears in literary history such as Paddington or Little Bear. The gentle reminder to confess and forgive will not be lost on readers either.

Cautions: none

Overall Value: 5 (out of 5)

• Moral/worldview value: 5
• Artistic value: 5

Categories: Starred Review, Gift Books, Picture Books, Character Values

Cover image from amazon