Booklist (December 1, 2015 (Online))
Preschool-Kindergarten. Bruce the bear is a grump. He doesn’t like company. Or sunshine. Or rain. What he does like is eggs and finding new fancy ways of preparing them—yes, Bruce has the Internet and a stove. He is a very modern bear. Readers will no doubt start giggling as they see Bruce push his shopping cart through the forest to collect the necessary ingredients—honey straight from the hive (“He liked to support local business”), salmon, and, of course, goose eggs. Having obtained everything he needs, he heads home and gets ready to cook. But, then, wouldn’t you know it? The eggs hatch! This results in the grumpiest Bruce yet, and hilarity ensues as he attempts to get the baby geese, who are convinced he is their mother, to leave him alone. Comic illustrations range from full-page paintings to spot illustrations and panels that combine to show Bruce’s schemes to rid himself of the geese, culminating in a silly but sweet conclusion. This case of mistaken identity will lend itself to a fun-filled storytime.
How frustrating life can be. Who would think that your desire for a delectable egg breakfast could lead to your entire life changing? When I read this book to first graders they all thought it was very sweet that the goslings thought Bruce was their mama. They really like the "Happily Ever After" ending. However, I read the book to fifth graders and their take was quite different. They immediately sided with Bruce and how his entire future plans had been altered. They wanted to try and find a way out for Bruce. The discussions we had about different reactions to this book were very interesting. There were so many different solutions to Bruce's dilemma that I turned it into a writing opportunity....."How can Bruce get his old way of life back, or should he even try?" Wow, what a diverse set of solutions were presented.
Posted by Margo Irving
Posted by Margo Irving
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