No Bear Anywhere - by Leah Gilbert (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

A young boy learns to cope with disappointment and embrace the unexpected in this infectiously charming, beautifully illustrated picture book.

2025 CBC Children's Favorites Awards List

When his family takes a walk on Bear Creek Trail, Bruin is determined to spot his favorite animal (a bear). Before too long, he notices something! It's a . . . pinecone! Not a bear, but that's okay. A few minutes later, Bruin stops again: He's seen a . . . flower! No bear anywhere, but there's still plenty of time. Eventually, they make it all the way to the . . . cave!

But when there is no bear anywhere in the cave, Bruin is as sad as could be. Can he turn his day around, even when there's no bear?
Or, wait a minute-was a bear there, after all?!

Leah Gilbert's gorgeous art shines in this playful and charming story about finding wonder and joy in the world around us, even when life takes unexpected turns.

Review Quotes

"An optimistic invitation to attentively explore the great outdoors, great for storytime and lap reads." --Booklist Online

"The illustrations completely sell the story . . . The book celebrates the little pleasures of childhood, such as the joy to be found in a sparkly rock or a prickly pinecone.. And preschoolers will love the realization that they know something the characters don't." --Kirkus Reviews

"The lustrous illustrations have a beautiful sense of light . . . . [Maya] is a strong, independent female and a complete charmer. Perfectly lovely." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on THE PERFECT PLAN

"An inspirational picture book for turning dreams into reality." --Booklist on THE PERFECT PLAN

"The beauty and mystery of the forest invites and enchants in this story about how working together can create something more beautiful than anyone could accomplish alone." --Foreword Reviews, starred review, on THE PERFECT PLAN

"Polished digital artwork portrays the animals and the forest in stylized, easy-to-recognize forms accented by golden light . . . . Lessons about persistence and teamwork are clear as Maya and friends exemplify cheerful energy, cooperation, and focus." --Publishers Weekly on THE PERFECT PLAN

"This fun read is guaranteed to put a spring in any reader's step." --Booklist on A COUCH FOR LLAMA

About the Author

Leah Gilbert is an author and illustrator whose books include A Couch for Llama and The Perfect Plan. When she's not writing and illustrating, you might find her outdoors with her family walking on trails near and far, though she has not yet encountered a bear (that she's aware of). She lives in Wisconsin with her husband, son, dog, and a large assortment of rocks and pinecones.
www.leah-gilbert.com
Instagram: @LeahGilbertBooks