How Do You Care for a Very Sick Bear? by Rosie Butcher, Vanessa Bayer
Published by Feiwel & Friends on June 4th 2019
ISBN: 1250298431
Pages: 32
Genres: Animals, Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

“How Do You Care For a Bear?” is Vanessa Bayer’s debut book. When young, she was diagnosed and treated for childhood leukemia.  This book, in an upbeat and joyous way, gives suggestions as to how one might help and “be there” for a friend who is experiencing illness.   Written and illustrated in such a way that is both reassuring and instructive, this adorable little picture book shows children how they might bring joy and happiness into the lives of others.  During times when one might  feel helpless and unneeded,  this book shows and reassures children  that  they  can make a difference.  And sometimes it’s enough to just “be there” and to be a friend.

I think this is an excellent book that gently provides  young children with several suggestions  of what they might do to bring happiness to a sick friend.  By doing so, a child may feel  a sense e of empowerment as opposed to feeling helpless and unneeded.

The illustrations are joyful and appealing.  I would recommend this book for children ages 3-8. Could be read anytime but especially when a child is concerned about another’s health.

Reviewed By Connie M. Smith, Breakwater School, Portland, ME