A Visitor for Bear by Bonny Becker

New York Times Bestseller Makes a Perfect Read Aloud

Nov 22, 2008 Kari Lomanno

When a grumpy bear is visited by a delightful and determined mouse, the result is a surprising friendship.

Sometimes an unexpected visitor can bring a pleasant surprise. In A Visitor for Bear (ISBN: 978-0-7636-2807-9), published by Candlewick Press in 2008, award-winning author Bonny Becker has created a modern classic featuring a grouchy bear and a merry mouse.

The bear does not want to be bothered while making his breakfast, so he has posted a sign on his front door that reads, "NO VISITORS ALLOWED." When a cheerful mouse comes by and refuses to be discouraged by the bear's demands that he leave, the bear reluctantly agrees to share some cheese and tea.

The result is a lesson for bear in the joys of friendship. He realizes that living alone can be pretty lonely and that opening your home to friends is both rewarding and fun.

Bear Comes Alive

This story comes alive with colorful watercolor illustrations by Kady MacDonald Denton. The text uses a variety of font styles and sizes to emphasize the dialogue. The bear’s cantankerous character remains true as he shouts, “Away with you! Vamoose!” to the unrelenting mouse. The mouse, in turn, responds with a plea for “just a bit of cheese and a cup of tea...” Even the most inexperienced reader will have fun creating the voices for these colorful characters.

The humor of the story is revealed as the mouse keeps popping up in places all over the bear's house. He surprises the bear in the cupboard, in a teapot, and even in the refrigerator. The bear responds by plugging every hole in his house, from the chimney to the bathtub. Each time the mouse is discovered, he kindly agrees to leave, only to show up again a moment or two later. Young readers will be delighted by the surprises.

Enjoyment for All Ages

The book is designed for children ages 2 through 6 (with a reading level for ages 4 through 8), but it would work well as a read aloud for students through middle school. The repetitive nature of the story makes a great lesson in predicting outcomes. It also provides a lesson in friendship and kindness. When the mouse finally agrees to leave after they share some food and drink, the bear begs him to stay. He realizes that sharing his life with others is more fun than living alone.

It is understandable why this book is a New York Times bestseller and ranks as a top-selling children’s book on Amazon.com. The delightful characters, adorable illustrations, and timeless lessons will keep this book on children’s shelves for years to come.

The copyright of the article A Visitor for Bear by Bonny Becker in Children’s Books is owned by Kari Lomanno. Permission to republish A Visitor for Bear by Bonny Becker in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.