Review by Kirkus Book Review
Tragedy. Badger has lost his teddy in this Spanish import. Bear comes along and offers to help. Through the meadow, under bushes ("since things get lost easily in low and dark places"), over the lake, under the water, and up in the trees our twomake that three (Ladybug is also helping)intrepid explorers leave no stone unturned. Bear asks the same question of everyone they meet: "Have you seen Badger's teddy?" Alas, the answer is always a disheartening "No." Bear is more distraught than Badger, who has clearly been having a great time. Apologizing for his apparent failure to help, Bear is totally befuddled when Badger asks, "Help me with what?" The happy Badger then promptly drags his "teddy" off for some more adventures. Swiss-German author Fehr writes in English, his simple, wryly funny, patterned text lending itself to group participation. The real winners here, however, are Leroy's bold-outlined watercolor illustrations. From concerned, ever present Ladybug, never mentioned in the text, to the chuckle-inducing visual denouement, the Belgian artist's humor carries the tale in grand style. Badger's expression of joyful wonder as the world unfolds around him is a delight. Adding to readers' enjoyment, characters from previous encounters wander obliviously into new scenes, creating an engaging sense of continuity. The simultaneous release of both the Spanish (via Luis Amavisca's translation) and English editions is sure to be welcomed by classrooms and bilingual households alike.A big treat. (Picture book. 3-7) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
