The Water Bears by Kim Baker
on April 21, 2020
ISBN: 1984852205
Genres: Fantasy, Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Newt Gomez lives on an island, and he survived a bear attack. He still has dreams about the attack, and he’s still physically healing as well. When he and a friend find a bear statue on the beach, and when the statue appears to grant wishes, things get interesting. Newt is ready to move on from island life, but the lessons he learns from his friends (and their interactions with the bear) may change his mind.

A little bit of magic, a lot of frienship, and a food truck with a giant rooster on it make this an all around entertaining read. The story felt a bit slow at times, but the plot, character development, and overall message are good. It also does a great job of exploring the challenges of overcoming trauma. A gentle coming of age story with a hint of magic, this book will appeal to a wide audience. Recommended for 3rd grade and up.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME