Imagine you and me

Bipedal yellow bear Randall and brown-skinned human pal Parker adore being together (they even sport matching glasses), but the pair's relationship begins to morph when Randall spends time with others. Initial beach scenes showcase the duo "lifting each other up when needed," and Parker takes on the role of cheerleader when Randall reluctantly interacts with a sloth of other bears--acquaintances who embrace Randall but can't seem to see Parker. As the ursine friend's confidence grows, the human child begins to fade, and the narrative turns bittersweet until Randall discovers he can use memory to summon his pal's companionship. Black calligraphic outlining gives the figural, digitally finished renderings a light-handed energy, while pale watercolors gentle Shum's amiable portrayal of friendship. Ages 3--7. (Jan.)

A young bear and a girl share a special friendship. Randall, a bespectacled, sandy-colored bear, is best friends with Parker, a brown-skinned tot who wears her hair in puffs and has matching red glasses. Randall and Parker do everything together. They especially love to build intricate sand castles and eat ice cream. But one day, three bears playing nearby interrupt their fun. Parker encourages Randall to introduce himself, and they all shyly become friends. Except…the other bears don't seem to notice Parker. In fact, the more they hang out together (Randall even starts wearing the same striped neckties as the others), the more Parker seems to fade away. Astute readers will realize what's going on: Parker, who nudges Randall to be more outgoing and pushes him to try new things, may not be there at all. But not to worry; she comes back whenever he thinks of her. This gentle, matter-of-fact tale will appeal to children longing to make new friends but a bit uncertain about doing so. Shum uses light-blue sketches to convey the two pals' imaginary play; when Parker starts to fade, she's also outlined in blue, with only her bright-red glasses remaining. But she'll always be there whenever Randall needs her. And, in an inspired twist, Parker finds a new pal of her own: a bear cub in need of an imaginary friend. A thoughtful look at making new friends. (Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.