Mr. Bear to the Rescue Book and Audiocassette Tape Set

When a fierce storm destroys the tree that housed the Rabbit-Bunn, Hoot-Toowit, and Buzz families, Mr. Bear packs his trusty baby buggy full of tools and heads out to the rescue. Though most of his efforts to put things right are more valiant than effective, his heart is clearly in the right place, and with a little luck, he gets everyone back to his house safely. Once the storm passes, Mrs. Bear works her magic, mending hive and nest. Love of family and friends is evident in both the text and the illustrations, and the happily-ever-after factor is strong. With all the natural disasters in the world, the fire and earthquake drills, and the tornado and hurricane watches, this reassuring book could be just the thing to encourage discussion or to comfort nervous youngsters. Gliori's watercolor cartoons are a delightful blend of warmth, color, humor, and detail. The double-page spreads of Mr. Bear trudging uphill against the driving rain are very effective as is the depiction of his cozy home and the intricate bark on the trees. Though some may find the family names cutesy, the text has a simplicity and directness sure to appeal to the audience for whom this book was carefully crafted. A genuine, warm-and-fuzzy read.