Big Bear and Little Bear Go Fishing - by Amy Hest (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Two bears go on a leisurely fishing trip"--

Book Synopsis

An unhurried fishing trip, with blueberry scones in tow, introduces a new bear duo sure to charm fans of Little Bear and Frog and Toad.

One day Big Bear says to Little Bear,
I'm just in the mood for fishing.
Me, too, says Little Bear. Just in the mood.

With this decided, Big Bear and Little Bear are off... almost. First they need the right attire, poles in a red wagon, a basket of freshly-baked scones, and a good book to read. It's unclear how much real fishing will get done today, but one thing's for sure: there will be a cozy nap in the hammock at the end.

Adults who grew up with classic stories about friendship and caring will feel an immediate resonance in the low-stakes adventures of these two adorable bears. Amy Hest's wry text sets a pitch-perfect mood, and Caldecott Medalist Erin Stead brings fine art to each bucolic illustration. Big Bear and Little Bear Go Fishing is a treat for all ages and is sure to find a treasured place on shelves for years to come.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
A Charlotte Zolotow Highly Commended Title

Review Quotes

"So rhythmic. So lulling. . . What permeates . . . is the deep love of true companionship; the sensitive navigation of disappointment, loss and fear; and the brilliant rhythms of a picture book giant at the top of her game."--The New York Times

"A master class in parenting."--Wall Street Journal

"One of the finest books I've seen in years."--Betsy Bird, A Fuse #8 Production, School Library Journal

★ "This externally quiet story, in which emotions ebb and flow along with a series of small events, should make a big impression."--Shelf Awareness, Starred Review

★ "This tale has all the hallmarks of a family classic."--Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

★ "Throughout an expedition in which nothing goes quite according to plan, satisfaction lies in the quality of seemingly limitless time the two bears share, a perception underscored by images that convey meditative calm. Together, the creators craft a world that never moves any faster than its characters want it to."--Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

"The soft watercolor paintings have a Wind in the Willows nostalgia to them, and though nothing much seems to happen, it's actually a very big day. There are small lessons to be learned about companionship, appreciating each moment shared, and making the best of an experience regardless of the outcome."--School Library Journal

"Plenty of cozy fun, and echoes of Winnie-the-Pooh's exploits ripple through the gentle, low-stakes adventure."--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"It's hard to imagine a nicer day than this."--The Horn Book

"From the understated text to the spare but pleasant illustrations, created with expressive lines and watercolor washes, everything about this quiet, satisfying picture book fits together beautifully."--Booklist

About the Author

Amy Hest's many acclaimed children's books include the BUNNY SHOULD BE SLEEPING, New York Times bestseller KISS GOOD NIGHT, and SOMETIMES IT'S NICE TO BE ALONE. A three-time winner of the prestigious Christopher Award, she lives in New York City.

Erin Stead is the illustrator of many picture books, including the Caldecott Medal-winning A Sick Day for Amos McGee, If You Want to See a Whale, The Uncorker of Ocean Bottles, and The Sun is Late and So is the Farmer. She lives in northern Michigan with her husband, author/illustrator Philip Stead.