Where Are You Bear? A Canadian Alphabet Adventure. Frieda Wishinsky. Illustrated by Sean L. Moore. Toronto, ON: Owlkids, 2010. 32 pp., hardcover, $18.95. ISBN 978-1-897349-91-5. Subject Headings: Canada-Pictorial works-Juvenile literature. English language-Alphabet-Juvenile literature. Alphabet books. Preschool-grade 1 / Ages 4-6. Review by John Dryden. ***½/4

Firstly, most of us are disappointed that a Canadian alphabet book begins with the ACTUAL letter 'A' instead of the Canadian spelling 'eh', but oh well. The book is great. The basic plot is a stuffed animal separated from Sophie (her owner) and, trying to catch up, Sophie travels across Canada to visit her grandmother. Wishinsky keeps this book simple enough so that it is clearly an alphabet book, and she does not focus on creating a lengthy story to read as well. There are even two full pages of French representing the letters 'I' and 'J.'

     The illustrations by Vancouver's Sean L. Moore are whimsical and folksy and suit the book well. I was unsure at first as there is another book (A Mountain Alphabet, by Ruurs / Kiss) that is simply amazingly artistic, but it is clear that Wishinsky's book is not an attempt to compete with this. Where are your Bear? certainly would be a great addition to the alphabet section of any classroom or library - a cute, lively story that covers the alphabet in a very cool Canadian way. You see, as you travel across the country with Sophie and Bear, the author and illustrator show you very specific Canadian treasures. Don't worry if you don't recognize all of them because the book includes a map with a legend inside the covers. I didn't need it though (ok, maybe a little).


     There is humour in the book that will not be lost on the young readers as Bear winds up in very weird places (A fishing net, clinging to a flag, in a dog's mouth) as Sophie travels safely with her parents.


     This book is a great choice.

Highly Recommended.

John Dryden is located at 48°46'43'N 123°42'28'W - I am sure Bear will find me before Flat Stanley.

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Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

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