Boo Bear's Light

Catherine Ann Russell offers children a delightful gift in Boo Bear's Light; a story all children can benefit from, it is sure to become a treasured addition to any bookshelf!

Written by Catherine Ann Russell and illustrated by Jessica Robin Harkey, Boo Bear's Light is a tale about a small family of three bears that befriend a firefly at the insistence of the titular baby bear, Boo. When Boo encounters the firefly named Jack, he finds that its wing has been injured and resolves to help. He brings Jack back with him to his Mama and Papa Bear and enlists their assistance in nursing Jack back to life. It is an adventure that emphasizes the power of kindness and the beauty of friendship. Each page of the book introduces a new theme for each letter of the alphabet that carries the story along, set against the backdrop of Harkey's full-page illustrations, which are largely dominated by the pastel blueish greens of the forest where the story is set. The book features a tried-and-true rhythmic writing style to keep your children engaged as they digest many of the lessons found throughout, and practice their ABCs.

Boo Bear's Light is a great choice for parents seeking fun, educational material for children ages 0-7. It covers a wide range of functions, whether that be aiding children in learning the alphabet, teaching them valuable life lessons about treating others with kindness, or entertaining them with material that is healthy, light-hearted and not too fast-paced. Not only is Boo a fantastic role model for children, but the way that Mama Bear and Papa Bear respond to his urge to help the struggling Jack offers even parents' valuable insight in fostering kindness in children, particularly in how they lead by example rather than simply teaching Boo the "right way" to be.

Combined with Russell's storytelling prowess, the outstanding illustrations carry a kind of whimsical beauty that drives home the book's lighthearted mood and encourages a valuable playfulness in children. The pastel colors create an idyllic feel that highlights the wonder with which we want our children to see the world. Apart from the book's deeper virtues, it's simply a fun, adorable story that keeps your attention and warms your heart.

Boo Bear's Light is empowering, educational and memorable; a must-read for young readers, parents, educators and librarians, that is sure to become a classic in children's literature! - Review by Book Excellence