Big Bear, Small Mouse
(Bear Books)

This is more an opposites primer than a full-fledged story, but it's nonetheless a fine addition for fans of Wilson and Chapman's Bear series. "Big, big, big!" Bear is friends with "small, small, small!" Mouse, proof that opposites not only attract but are also fun to look at. As the duo walks through the forest, various friends appear--readers will recognize Badger, Rabbit, and others from the previous Bear books--representing additional contrasts in terms of size, speed, audio level, and habitat: "What's that up above?/ There's a flutter in the sky./ Wren is flying low,/ while Owl is soaring high." The circle of friends is complete when the birds' geographic opposites, Mole and Gopher, "tunnel up and join the happy crowd./ The sun sets on the quiet woods,/ but all the friends are loud!" Chapman alternates lush forest scenes with distilled images set against white backdrops--a nifty visual contrast of its own--before wrapping up with the friends seeking shelter in Bear's lair; the cave party, aglow with firelight, is a lovely and reassuring signature of the series. Ages 3-7. (Nov.)

PreS-K--In the woods there are many friends. Some are large, and others are small. Some fly high and others low. Some are fast, while others move slowly. The world is full of opposites, but they are able to come together in a way that is just right. In a beautifully vibrant forest, Wilson and Chapman's animals come to life with love and charm. A bear, a badger, an owl, a mouse, and many more woodland creatures demonstrate the concept of opposites. With pleasant expressions and a cheerful tone, the characters are adorable and endearing. The text is simple and easy to grasp for even the youngest viewers. A combination of lush green illustrations and crisp white backgrounds creates the perfect contrast with the turn of every page. The talented author/illustrator duo have produced another outstanding picture book for the preschool audience. VERDICT Fans of Bear Snores On will want to add this fun and effortless tool for teaching opposites to their storytime repertoires.--Amy Shepherd, St. Anne's Episcopal School, Middleton, DE