The Teddy Bear by David McPhail 2002This book touches on a very important topic in a gentle way. A young boy misplaces his favorite stuffed bear on a vacation with his family.
"By the time he was missed, and a search begun, it was too late-he was not to be found."
The bear is afraid and alone until he is found by a homeless man who tucks him in his pocket and carries him everywhere. Although this life of sleeping outside, and wandering aimlessly is strange for the bear, he "still felt loved." The boy soon forgets his bear. "He had new toys to occupy him and new friends to keep him busy." But one day he sees his old bear on a park bench, where the homeless man had temporarily placed him. He excitedly grabs the bear up, and begins to carry him home. When the homeless man notices the bears disappearance he begins to wail in despair. What happens next is a wonderful lesson in compassion, kindness, and generosity.
McPhail's pen-and-watercolor illustration is full of emotion, reminding us that we are blessed with so much. This is a story I recall to mind often when I see those less fortunate. It highlights the importance of genuine compassion towards others.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
1 comment:
I love David McPhail, you'll have to read his story Lost too.
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