The Library of Bears (Cat Rabbit, Berbay)

The Library of Bears, the fourth book by textile artist and designer Cat Rabbit (How to Make Friends: A Bear’s Guide), reassures children that while trying new things can be scary, a little courage can lead to wonderful discoveries. Through her distinctive felted creations, which are photographed for the book’s illustrations, Rabbit invites readers into a cosy library filled with bears of all shapes and sizes waiting to be borrowed. All have previously been borrowed, apart from one. Softie, a sweet little bear in a green jacket, is puzzled about why she never goes on adventures like the other library bears. But one day, she is finally borrowed by a dapper koala called KB. Though Softie is initially disappointed when the experience isn’t quite what she expected, things take a turn for the better, and she and KB make sure to pay attention to the details: a friendly cat, toast and jam, and reading in the sun. Readers of all ages who love books and teddy bears will revel in this charming story, as will children who enjoy the library, who will perhaps even want to borrow Softie themselves after reading this. The Library of Bears will be an easy recommendation for any bookseller or librarian who knows some younger folk who may need a feel-good book about finding your place.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Katie Haydon is a library officer in Geelong and a former assistant editor of Books+Publishing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews