The Bear and the Piano (The Bear and the Piano #1)

After finding a piano in the woods, a brown bear teaches himself to play (even though he doesn't know what it is, exactly), going on to wow his fellow bears and, later, the world. Newcomer Litchfield explores the life of a musician from several angles: the necessity of practice (after "days and weeks and months of years" of playing, "the sounds that came from the strange thing were beautiful"), the allure of fame, and the loneliness of leaving home, even when one's name and face are plastered across Broadway. The bear achieves stratospheric success (platinum records, sold-out shows), and after he returns to his forest (still wearing a rumpled tuxedo), he discovers that his brethren have been proudly following his career, not resenting his absence. Litchfield's multilayered mixed-media illustrations gracefully portray dappled forest groves, the energy of a packed concert hall, and the simultaneous bustle and solitude of city life. The bear's emotions--contentment, pride, uncertainty, relief--are captured with equal skill in a tenderly moving story about embracing one's potential while remembering one's roots. Ages 4-7. Agent: Anne Moore Armstrong, Bright Group. (Apr.)

PreS-Gr 2--A young bear finds a piano in the middle of the forest and begins to play. Initially turned off by the awful sound, he leaves but soon returns to try again. The bear continues to practice for years and years until he can play like a virtuoso. Not only does his playing give him immense pleasure but the other bears are enchanted as well. When a boy and a girl discover the bear's amazing talent, they convince him to move to the city. Sad to leave his friends but excited to explore another world, he ventures forth and becomes a sensation. After much fame and accolades, the bear realizes that he misses his friends and decides to return home. He is heartsick when he can't find his piano in the woods and assumes they have all forgotten him. Happiness is restored when he learns his friends have kept the piano in the shade to protect it and were eagerly awaiting his return. Litchfield's debut picture book is a visual feast. Using a variety of different techniques and then digitally assembling them, he has produced a story filled with verdant and luminous images that create an enchanting atmosphere. The story encourages young ones to follow their dreams and pursue their unique talents. VERDICT A wonderful addition for all collections.--Amy Nolan, St. Joseph Public Library, St. Joseph, MI