THE BEAR AND THE DUCK

Bear and Duck's friendship begins with a threat and an act of kindness.

When an injured duck caught in a tangle of branches and a bear taking a stroll after winter hibernation meet, Duck makes the first move, shouting a warning to stay away or the bear will lose his head. Bear finds the fear behind that threat amusing, considering his advanced age and lack of teeth. Instead Bear brings Duck home to care for him in his den. As Duck recuperates, the two take walks, with Duck riding on Bear’s back. While Bear bathes in the water, Duck splashes about and tells wonderful stories of his adventures. But soon Duck knows he must join the other birds and fly away. Bear is lonely and fears that he will never see Duck again. He sleeps through another winter, and the next spring Duck returns for a happy reunion. It is a gentle tale, told with tenderness and humor. Duck seems to be the dominant personality while Bear is patient, gentle, and admiring. They are both male and of wildly different species, but these details are less a factor in their friendship than acceptance and warmth. Illustrations in full- and partial-page wood engravings beautifully capture both the forested seasonal landscapes and the characters’ expressive body language.

A loving, nonjudgmental tale of a long and lasting friendship.