Gorgeously illustrated, a lovely children’s book which will be enjoyed for years and years.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for letting me read an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest feedback.

Catherine Rayner’s books are always beautifully illustrated and well composed as this one does not disappoint. Playing on the idea that bears are often solitary creatures this story introduces different species of bear bumping into each other as they go about their lives. Although they initially have different goals and objectives, as the group grows they begin to share a direction and a friendship. This would be a great book to use to begin to learn about different bears and their lifestyles and habitats. It would also be useful in PSHE lessons for exploring friendship.

I love Catherine Raynor books and this one didn’t disappoint. Five different bears are introduced in this story. They all become friends in the end. A lovely book to share with children.

Oh just when you think Catherine Rayner books can’t get more beautiful, along comes a bear. Well actually five bears come along, and they are all completely different but equally appreciative of each other.

This is a lovely book about the wonderfulness of diversity and not being afraid to accept help from unlikely sources

Lovely story beautiful illustrations. A must for any teddybear lovers young or old. I bought a copy for my bear loving sister and she is 62!

This is a stunningly illustrated picture book which is on the surface about some friendly bears but which has a deeper message about friendship, loneliness and the importance of being together, even with people (or bears) who are different to you. Rayner's distinctive style and expert layout brings energy and life to this simple and timeless story.

I liked this book very much. The bears are all different and don't really speak to one another until they find Bear 5 but then they all pull together to help and realise they're all quite nice!
This is such a nice story. The illustrations are great. Lovely picture book for nursery / Ks1 children but I also know a class of KS2 who love picture books!

A very amusing lesson in friendship, as first one bear meets another, then they meet a third, and so on, and all the time doubt, unfriendliness and antagonism are broken down. The brotherhood look a bit too scruffy for me to love the visuals, but it's the lesson in how easy it is to find a common ground and build camaraderie that the junior readers will take from this. An easy four stars.

This is cute childrens book about being on your own but sometimes you a little help and like having company.
The illustrations are lovely to.
Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this book.