Reading Metrics
Description
Johnny sets out to kill a big bear and insteads befriends him. Caldecott Medal Winner. NCTE Adventuring with Books.
Quick Summary
When Johnny grabs his father's rifle and heads into the woods determined to shoot the biggest bear he's ever seen, the story could go a scary way but it doesn't. The tension builds as Johnny meets the massive bear, and what starts as a hunt quickly turns into a surprising friendship that will make readers smile. The book won the Caldecott Medal, so the watercolor illustrations are rich and full of detail, giving the forest a cozy, alive feeling that kids love to explore page by page. If your child adores animal tales where the beast turns out to be gentle, or if they like a quick, heart-warming read, this 1,000-word picture book is a perfect fit. Parents will find the initial hunt is more of a rite-of-passage moment than a violent scene, and the ending leaves a warm, fuzzy feeling that works well for bedtime. For another sweet kid-and-animal story, try "Blueberries for Sal" by Robert McCloskey.