THE BEAR

Presumably in an effort to encourage listeners to chime in, Spengler repeats each line of this campfire ditty, about being chased by a bear, above and below scenes of a young camper, pigtails flying, high-tailing it just ahead of a ferocious looking, honey-colored pursuer. Happily, a gigantic eagle swoops down in the nick of time to carry the child to its nest: “ ‘Now,’ said the bird, / ‘Don’t be afraid! / Have pumpkin pie / And lemonade!’ ” The song has several versions; it’s not clear whether this resolution is Spengler’s own invention or not, but it goes well enough with the rest of the escapade. Readers who may not have the opportunity to sit around many campfires will welcome the musical arrangement at the end. (Picture book. 5-7)