Mama insists that Old Bo Bear is “World Class Dirty” and so tosses him into the washer. The poor teddy bear comes out short an ear! But the little boy and his teddy bear, matched in red-and-yellow striped shirts, aren’t daunted. The lost ear simply inspires imaginative adventures. In one episode Bo is “Scar” and the boy is “Guts” as they take on pirates. That’s how salty Old Bear loses his ear. There’s also the romp in the Wild West where “Deputy” Bear and his “sheriff” take down some nasty varmints. In this instance, “Deputy” loses an ear as he’s bucked off a bronco. The two get dirtier and dirtier with each adventure, but one thing’s for sure—Bo’s never going back in the washing machine. The vibrant artwork is bold, detailed and mirthful. Particularly fine is the sparkling spread of the pirate battle with festooned sails, scowling pirates and turquoise sea with Bo and the boy swinging from ropes. With prankish charm, Schertle and Parkins cleverly herald the delights of imaginative play. (Picture book. 3-6)
