How to Be Human: A Bear's Guide - by Sophia Kolinas (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Once there was a bear who lived in the forest and did all the regular bear things. But as the world and the forest around him changes, he finds that it's becoming more and more difficult to be a bear. So he decides that the sensible thing to do would be to learn how to be human. After all, humans don't seem to be having any trouble in the changing world. With a little girl as his teacher, the bear learns all the important human stuff and heads off for the city to try out his new skills ... but nothing goes as planned. So, back in the forest, the little girl suggests that maybe bears should be less like humans, and humans should be more like bears. And with the bear as her teacher, she begins to learn all the important bear stuff, ultimately discovering that the Earth is a place of giving, where all living things breathe together."--

Book Synopsis

A bear and a girl form an unlikely friendship as they show each other the important things in life

Once there was a bear who lived in a forest and did all the regular bear things. But as his home and the world around him change--fewer fish, fewer trees, and less quiet--he notices how tricky his life is becoming to maintain. The sensible thing to do is adapt, so the bear enlists the help of a little girl and asks her to teach him how to be human.

The unlikely duo works together to master the art of being human, but when the bear heads to the city to try out his new skills, nothing goes as planned. Back in the forest, the girl considers that maybe humans should learn from bears instead. So the bear shares his own unique knowledge with the girl, and she ultimately discovers that the Earth is a place of giving, where all living things breathe together.

Charming illustrations bring this story of cooperation and friendship to life, inviting readers to see the value of exchanging ideas and learning from others.

Review Quotes

"A sweet and compelling story, How to be Human presents a refreshing approach to picture books within the environmentalist genre without being overbearing or didactic."

-- "Canadian Review of Materials"

"Adorable cartoon illustrations highlight the ursine-girl relationship ... Perhaps the Earth would be better off if humans were more like animals."

-- "Kirkus Reviews"

"This picture book brings a timely message about what it means to work with the natural world to a young audience through an age-appropriate, expertly pitched, and well emoted story."

-- "Children's Literature Comprehensive Database"

"This sweet and charming story about friendship convincingly emphasizes the importance of being bear-y good stewards of nature."

-- "Booklist"

"Young readers will be enticed by the telling illustrations that show the importance of working together for the greater good."

-- "Sal's Fiction Addiction"