Bear and Bird: The Stars and Other Stories - (Candlewick Sparks) by Jarvis (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"These humorous, touching, imaginative stories are matched by illustrations with the same qualities. . . . Friendship at its best." --Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Bear and Bird are the best of friends, but yesterday they had a falling out. And although they can't quite remember why, each is sure that a new best friend is now in order. If Bear sends an anonymous letter floating down the river, will it be found by someone nice--someone with whom he has as much in common as he did with Bird? In this quartet of tales, the endearing duo is back to show that even friends who sometimes get their wires crossed can always be each other's best supporter--whether making plans to meet that go comically awry, baking hideously inedible surprise cakes, or savoring a starlit moment together (and getting carried away with wishes for just one more thing to make it perfect). With his signature subtle wit, irresistible art, and an underlying affection, Jarvis draws newly independent readers into a sweet friendship for the ages.

Review Quotes

Four heartwarming stories deepen the exploration of friendship introduced in Bear and Bird: The Picnic (2023). . . . These humorous, touching, imaginative stories are matched by illustrations with the same qualities. Naïve-looking, soft-colored flat backgrounds focus attention on the black-outlined animals, especially the textured, stuffy-like bear and simplified bluebird, both expressive and huggable. Friendship at its best.
--Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Bird and Bear welcome readers back into their cozy world with another four stories of their life as best friends in the woods. . . .The charming stories share space with darling, softly textured illustrations, playful hand-scribbled notes, and whimsical details. A sweet and silly snapshot of enduring friendship.
--Booklist

Demonstrates what is possible when an observant, humorous and talented animator portrays friendship between easygoing, childlike characters.
--The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

About the Author

Jarvis is the author-illustrator of the companion chapter book Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other Stories as well as the picture books Alan's Big, Scary Teeth; Tropical Terry; Follow Me, Flo!; and The Boy with Flowers in His Hair, among others. He is also the illustrator of Pick a Pine Tree, Pick a Pumpkin, and Pick a Perfect Egg, all by Patricia Toht. An animator who has worked as a record jacket designer and an animation director, he lives in Manchester, England.