Bear and Duck are Friends

by Sue deGennaro

Overview

Bear and Duck are best friends, but they are very different. Duck likes to try new things, and Bear ... well, Bear likes not to.

When Duck needs a friend for her dance class, Bear reluctantly agrees. Bear’s big size causes problems at first, but he soon discovers that he might just be a very good dancer.

Bear and Duck is a story about friendship, confidence, and overcoming the fear of trying new things. 

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781761210327
Publisher:	Hardie Grant Children's Publishing
Publication date:	07/02/2024
Pages:	24
Product dimensions:	9.75(w) x 9.75(h) x 0.30(d)
Age Range:	3 - 5 Years

About the Author

Sue deGennaro has worked with top caliber authors such as Ursula Dubosarsky and Jackie French, as well as writing and illustrating many of her own critically acclaimed titles, including The Pros and Cons of Being a Frog, which was shortlisted for the CBCA Early Childhood Book of the Year in 2013.

Editorial Reviews

"In the expressive illustrations, the two lovable main characters stand out clearly against white backgrounds. An appealing and ultimately joyous read-aloud choice."—Booklist 

“This sweet, simply told Australian import emphasizes the importance of offering unwavering support and lets kids know that they can boost others’ spirits. Children will feel buoyed by these pals. Visible pencil strokes give the softly rendered illustrations a cozy feeling; the winsome protagonists look almost like stuffed toys. An adorable, cheery friendship tale.”—Kirkus Reviews

Praise for The Pros and Cons of Being a Frog:

"This celebration of differences displays great respect for readers' intelligence and yields more with each reading." (Kirkus, STARRED REVIEW )

"A welcome example for children forging their own friendships." (Publishers Weekly)

"Lively, visually appealing, and an ultimately affirming tale of friendship." (Booklist)

From the Publisher

2024-04-05
Sometimes, all you need is a supportive pal.

Bear and Duck are besties. Duck’s enthusiastic about trying new things; Bear…not so much. Though larger than his feathered friend, Bear prefers sitting on the sidelines, listening to Duck wax lyrical about taking part in new activities. Bear tries, too, but he’s klutzy and usually falls down. (He’s better at napping.) Duck invites Bear to join his dance class on “bring-a-friend-day.” At first Bear’s pumped, but when he arrives at the studio, he confesses that he’s scared. Ever-supportive Duck reassures Bear that they’ll take things one step at a time—literally. Duck and the other dancers trip the light fantastic; Bear just trips. He’s ready to give up, but when Duck reminds him that he’s not alone and advises him to close his eyes and “feel the music,” things improve; turns out Bear’s a great dancer after all. The next day, Duck invites Bear to be his plus one at swimming class. Guess who can’t wait to dive right in? This sweet, simply told Australian import emphasizes the importance of offering unwavering support and lets kids know that they can boost others’ spirits. Children will feel buoyed by these pals. Visible pencil strokes give the softly rendered illustrations a cozy feeling; the winsome protagonists look almost like stuffed toys.

An adorable, cheery friendship tale. (Picture book. 4-7)

Kirkus Reviews