Appearing in the Children’s Books Ireland, Protecting Our Planet List, this book tells the story of a polar bear family’s journey in search of a better food source. Leaving their home to search for seals, they walk until dumpster food remnants entice them into a city. Reminiscent of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, they settle into a “just right” apartment. Problematic interactions with humans, waning food sources, and seeing a familiar landscape on TV featuring seals and penguins, prompt them to resume their journey. The final polar bear family illustration shows them looking very different from their initial depiction, wearing human attire and hauling human artifacts. Application of anthropomorphism and undertones of global warming, displacement, and immigration makes this suitable for a broad age range. Hans Christian Anderson Award recipient Oleynikov adorns full- and double-page spreads with vibrant, colourful illustrations. These, along with occasional sequential art panels, reflect what is communicated in the text and add detail to the storyline.

Other End Matter: None
Images: Colour illustrations
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Evaluator: Jennifer W., Literacy Educator And Administrator, BC Books for Schools

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Helen Mixter is a writer and the translator of several children's books, including the Governor General's Award-winning Harvey.

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“Fun and ‘kid friendly’... Especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library picture book collections."
—Midwest Book Review