Love is in the bear

Reveling in all the gloriously fresh sensations of spring, a newly awakened bear is entranced by a chickadee's transcendent singing. Captivated by her musical accomplishments and learning she's prepping for an opera audition, fledgling singer Bear joins his encouraging new friend Bird for hours of diligent and dedicated practice as a duet. Though disappointed when his singing doesn't make the cut, devoted Bear makes good on his promise to watch Bird's performance; in turn, she cherishes his basso profundo snores as she lovingly watches over him through his long winter slumbers. Prolific illustrator Kazemi sensitively renders a dreamlike forest world in perfect harmony with Henderson's indelible fable--decorative, almost calligraphic details of flora and fauna are posed atop cloudy backgrounds of soft blues and greens. Enhanced with gently humorous moments and details about the natural world's seasonal changes, this tender tale celebrates the sweet allure of shared song spinning into an unexpected but abiding friendship.

A bear finds love in both music and a feathered friend. Bear groggily wakes from a winter slumber, lumbering outside to greet the world. But if he had slept one more second, he would have missed it: "the moment--the moment--in a day that started everything." An enchanting song is heard. Bear follows the sound and finds a dainty chickadee singing her heart out. She is, in fact, practicing for the opera. "AHHH-PERA," says Bear. And then questions: "What's the Opera?" ("It's a story with lots of singing.") Bear wonders if he could be part of the opera, too. Bird's wide-eyed expression at Bear's "BASSO PROFUNDO" voice leads readers to guess that his talents might be lacking. The two practice together and audition. In an unexpected twist, Bear does not get the part (though Bird does). But the love that has developed between them transcends all. They are still an undeniable duet, and when winter returns, Bird promises to watch over Bear as he sleeps. Kazemi's ethereal forest, full of smudged trees and floating dandelion wisps, enhances the sentimental atmosphere of these sweet soul mates. The intended audience might not immediately hear John Paul Young's crooning voice once the title is read, but listening to "Love Is in the Air" or an operatic aria is a logical next step. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Elevates standard hibernation fare to a new level. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.