OUP ISBN 9780192772114 £6.99
This sensitive book explores grieving, loss and moving forward. Jack is an autistic boy who has a very close relationship with his Bear. Jack was able to hide behind Bear in situations where he felt awkward.
But one day Bear disappears. Jack is devastated .He and his parents spread the word that bear is missing. People respond by sending him bears, letters, notes and pictures of their own bears. “Somehow, they all understood how Jack felt. Many of them had known that empty sad space too.”
Over time Jack realises how lucky he was to have bear, and starts to feel affection for his memories of Bears. He decides to give away the bears he has been given so other children could have something to help them feel brave. At the end of the story Jack realises Bear will always be a part of him, and ” he would always carry him in his heart”. Variation font size is used effectively to convey Jack’s feelings. The book is based on a true story, and Jack himself posed for all the beautiful drawings that enhance the text. Highly recommended for children aged 0-5, and for anyone coping with loss.
Brenda Marshall