WORRY BEAR

Wide awake in the wee hours of the morning, Worry Bear sits perched on his shelf in the dark toy store—take a minute to find him among the multitudes. At first Laundry Bears are concerned that he is worried because his sweater could use a wash; Polar Bears attempt to give him comfort by offering some warmth; and Honey Bear suggests he might be hungry. But soon they all figure out that maybe he is just lonely. Together the bears go off to search for his family, all except one. Blabber Bear stays behind giving voice to Worry Bear’s concerns, nattering on in comfort. Worry Bear sits listening until suddenly the toy store opens for business and their conversation must end. Snuggled up to his new friend, he falls asleep at last. Artful illustrations rendered in a wash of watercolors feature a wonderful collection of stuffed bears of every size. Unfortunately, the story is so subtle it will take an adult to explain what has happened. Still, bear lovers will want to snuggle up to Worry Bear, too. (Picture book. 2-5)