Nothing’s Wrong!: A Hare, a Bear, and Some Pie to Share
Nothing’s Wrong!: A Hare, a Bear, and Some Pie to Share
“Anders! First of all, thank you. What a wonderful gesture! Second of all, we can make another pie. And this time, we’ll make it together.”
“I suppose that sounds OK.”
“I just want to spend time with you, ol’friend. It doesn’t matter if we’re sitting in a field, walking down a twisty path, or baking together in a kitchen.”
“Yeah, Jeff, that sounds grand.”
The title’s hare, Anders, begins his day by crafting an apple pie according to his grandmother's cherished recipe. This pie, intended as a delightful surprise for his picnic with his friend Jeff, seems the perfect addition to their afternoon plans. Once baked, Anders places the pie on the windowsill to cool and takes a morning walk in the forest. However, an unexpected downpour changes the course of events. Anders rushes home to rescue his pie but finds he is too late; the rain has ruined it. To compound his misfortune, Anders slips on the wet floor, and the pie lands atop him.
Just then, his friend Jeff, a bear, arrives and finds a pie-covered Anders who appears slightly out of sorts. Unaware of the pie-baking venture, Jeff is left somewhat puzzled. However, he does sense that something is off with Anders, but, upon inquiry, he is reassured that all is well. Even when Anders seems flustered while packing for the picnic, he insists that he is fine. Jeff speculates various reasons for Anders' odd behavior, but all his conjectures are rejected.
Upon reaching the picnic spot, the contents of their basket reveal the seeming lack of planning – a sprouted potato and a can of baked beans. Both are momentarily taken aback before Anders finally reveals the morning's mishaps regarding the pie. Upon hearing this, Jeff expresses his gratitude for Anders's efforts for the picnic and suggests they go back home to bake a new pie together. To Jeff, spending quality time with Anders is the priority, regardless of the activities involved.
The duo returns home where they team up to create a large cherry pie. The inviting aroma attracts various woodland creatures, all of whom partake in the treat and savor it on the grass. As evening falls, Anders and Jeff share warm conversations and hot chocolate near the fireplace, truly enjoying each other's companionship.
Kraan’s vivid illustrations in the book masterfully portray the hare's abode and the surrounding nature teeming with a multitude of animals. The vibrant colors infuse life and vitality, enhancing the reader’s experience.
Author Jory John excellently presents a story replete with important messages about friendship. Nothing’s Wrong!: A Hare, a Bear, and Some Pie to Share highlights how a good friend can provide comfort, and the book emphasizes that qualities like patience, companionship, and keen observation are crucial in cultivating meaningful relationships.
Yina Liu is a doctoral student in language and literacy at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta.