Ick at the Picnic!
Lisa Marie Negele
language
(, March 31, 2011)
This is an engaging story about the picnic outing of a trio of bears. The three cubs, Daisy, Lily and Spike, are attemping to enjoy a nice picnic, but Spike continues to have his dining interrupted by an assortment of harmless insects.Unfortunately, Spike is afraid of bugs. Thus, when a bee shows interest in Spike's honey sandwich, he becomes alarmed and flees in panic. He eventually discards his sandwich and hides beneath a garbage can.His amused but sympathetic friends, Daisy and Lily, come to his aid. They encourage him to leave his hiding spot and rejoin their picnic. The two bear cubs try to reassure Spike that the bee had no intention of harming Spike and that there was no reason for him to be afraid.Spike is ultimately coaxed back to their picnic site and decides to eat some potato chips. He rummages around in their picnic basket to locate a bag, but just as he closes the lid to indulge in his snack he spots a spider scurrying across the basket.Once again panic ensues and Spike flees the scene. The girls resume their efforts to comfort Spike and explain that it really is sort of silly to fear such small creatures. He finally returns to the picnic site with Daisy and Lily, and the friends share chips and dip. Just as Spike is beginning to nibble on a chip, he feels something land on his back. While he tries to pay no attention to this unexpected visitor, Spike is overcome by giggles. He explains to Daisy and Lily that the insect creeping through his fur is tickling him, and he cannot contain himself. Lily looks and discovers a fly. Once she notices the small insect, it flies away.As their picnic outing draws to a close, the friends begin to clean up their refuse and belongings. As they do so, Spike thanks his companions for helping him realize that there is room for all creatures, big and small, on the planet.By sharing this story with their children, parents can help them realize that there is no need to fear insects or spiders. Many children have an aversion to these tiny creatures, and it is important that they realize such fear is unfounded. This enchanting tale will be enjoyed by children ages 2 to 10. Read it at bedtime, naptime or any time!