There, There

A deeply resonant story. --Publishers Weekly (starred review) Charming... A pleasing portrait of a nurturing father-son relationship, McBratney's latest should find a warm welcome. --Kirkus Reviews

Bates has captured the warmth of a father's love for his son in the older bear's expressions, and Hansie is an adorable young bear, full of curiosity and energy. A fine portrayal of parental love and caring. --School Library Journal

The charming mixed-media illustrations, from small vignettes to double-page spreads, are softly hued... An ever-present family of ducks appears in most pictures and adds lightness and humor. Hansie is a prime example of how a youngster models behaviors... --Booklist

This could have been overly sentimental, but McBratney keeps it real with concise and natural language... The soft autumnal tones and softly scribbled detail in the flora and fauna of Bates' mixed-media illustrations effectively echo the gentleness of the text. ... Families and classrooms will find this a solid offering for days when kids need a bit of comforting. --Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

... Ivan Bates's depictions of a warm family, with fur that looks soft enough to touch, contrast nicely with the autumn backdrop. Best of all... this picture book honors the special bond between father and son. --Shelf Awareness for Readers