Imagine You and Me - by Benson Shum (Hardcover)

About the Book

"A bond between an imaginative bear and his best friend is tested when he starts making new friends"--

Book Synopsis

A gentle story--with a surprise twist!--about the bond between an imaginative bear and his best friend.

Randall and Parker are the very best of friends--they do everything together, from building elaborate sand castles to swimming with mermaids. One day while they're playing, they see another group of bears nearby, and Parker urges Randall to ask the bears to play with them.

But there's one problem: None of the other bears can see Parker. And the more time Randall spends with this new sloth of friends, the less he sees Parker too. Until one day, she disappears, and Randall must dig through his memories to find her.

This gentle story celebrates the beauty and magic of adventures with friends, both imaginary and real.

Review Quotes

★ "Shum masterfully conveys mood . . . The limited color palette of the watercolor and ink scenes and spartan design emphasize facial expressions. The narrative reads on two very different levels, keeping adults from tiring of the story; the emotional cues are all spot on. Few picture books ring so true in so few words. An essential work on making friends, being brave, and dealing with the inherent emotional turmoil of growing up." --School Library Journal, starred review

"Shum crafts a narrative that tenderly revels in the emotional support and the exciting play an imaginary friend can provide, and the torn, nostalgic feelings of growing apart from one's make-believe pals . . . A loving meditation on friendships new and old, found on the playground or playing pretend, Randall and Parker's adventure is sure to be a hit with shy bears and daring dreamers alike." --BCCB

"This gentle, matter-of-fact tale will appeal to children longing to make new friends but a bit uncertain about doing so . . . A thoughtful look at making new friends." --Kirkus