The Bear-Shaped Hole - by John Dougherty (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Gerda and Orlo are bear best friends. When Gerda was there, Orlo always had time. For a game or a story, a joke or a rhyme. He was never too busy to listen, to talk. To help, or to share, or to go for a walk. But slowly-at first-something starts to change and Orlo reveals he is sick and not going to get better. Gerda is filled with emotions that she cannot explain but Orlo is there to help her prepare and they spend their time together making memories that will last a lifetime. So, when the time comes, Gerda can fill up the Bear-Shaped hole in her life with the special memories she created with Orlo. Another powerful and moving picture book from John Dougherty and Thomas Docherty, award-winning creators of the acclaimed The Hare-Shaped Hole, that sensitively explores the preparation before loss as well as the loss itself. This poignant story is perfect for talking to children about the varying types of loss, from moving schools and losing a cherished toy, to the death of a beloved pet or family member"--

Book Synopsis

Discover a heartwarming story that will help children understand and prepare for a loss.

Gerda and Orlo are bear best friends. When Gerda was there, Orlo always had time. For a game or a story, a joke or a rhyme. He was never too busy to listen, to talk. To help, or to share, or to go for a walk.

But slowly--at first--something starts to change and Orlo reveals he is sick and not going to get better. Gerda is filled with emotions that she cannot explain but Orlo is there to help her prepare and they spend their time together making memories that will last a lifetime. So, when the time comes, Gerda can fill up the Bear-Shaped hole in her life with the special memories she created with Orlo.

Another powerful and moving picture book from John Dougherty and Thomas Docherty, award-winning creators of the acclaimed The Hare-Shaped Hole, that sensitively explores the preparation before loss as well as the loss itself.

This poignant story is perfect for talking to children about the varying types of loss, from moving schools and losing a cherished toy, to the death of a beloved pet or family member.

Review Quotes

"Gerta learns--and readers will, too--that while losing a beloved friend or family member can be painful, being open to loving them and engaging fully with them is what makes life meaningful."

--Children's Literature

A heart-breaking and heart warming story of how to appreciate others and the wisdom that can be learnt through grief.

--My Book Corner

"A brilliant pre-bereavement book."

--Grief Encounter

"Grief is a big topic in any child's life and must be handled gently, as it is here [...] ideal for pre-school settings."

--Inis Magazine

"This sensitive, gentle, straightforward story of friends who must part will help small readers weather the painful emotions that come before a loved one dies."

--The Guardian

'Full of hope and love it illustrates beautifully how it is possible to carry our loved ones with us after their death. I have already recommended it to bereaved families and friends who are struggling with how to communicate with young folk about grief.'

--The Good Grief Project

'The most wonderful book that I've come across for explaining to children the process of illness, death, grief and the emotions that come with it and yet it is also hopeful, comforting and life-affirming.'

--Annie Everall, OBE

'We all absolutely love this book- it is so sensitively written and describes real feelings in an honest way and uses all the language that is so important in preparing children when someone they know is dying.'

--Penhaligon's Friends

"The Bear-Shaped Hole is going to be one of the most important picturebooks of 2025."

--Jon Biddle, teacher and influencer

"This "delicate and sensitive" companion title to Dougherty and Swansea-based illustrator Docherty's The Hare-Shaped Hole focuses on preparation for loss, as well as loss itself, with gentle artwork to help reassure and support young children."

--The Bookseller

"...with its sensitive message about the loss of a loved one is an especially, unreservedly recommended acquisition for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections...."

--The Midwest Book Review

"Calming guidance for little ones grappling with sorrow."

--Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Author and poet John Dougherty has been writing children's books for over twenty years. His work ranges quite literally from the sublime to the ridiculous, including as it does the hilarious and surreal Stinkbomb and Ketchup-Face series and There's a Pig Up My Nose, and the beautiful and multi-award winning The Hare-Shaped Hole. His books have been translated into more than 25 languages worldwide.

A former teacher, John was one of the first Patrons of Reading in the UK and is a passionate advocate for both public libraries and the importance of reading for pleasure. Born in Northern Ireland, he now lives in Gloucestershire with his wife Jennie.

Thomas Docherty is an author and illustrator of children's books, who is based in Swansea. His first picture book, The Little Boat was shortlisted for the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal, and he has also worked on several books with his wife Helen Docherty, including The Snatchabook and The Knight Who Wouldn't Fight. His books have been sold around the world and have eben translated into more than 25 languages.