Bear and the Whisper of the Wind -- a fun picture book about change

 

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

How do you feel about life changes? Whether it is a new job, a new home, a new relationship, or other change, it can be hard, scary and also a good thing. Now think about how change feels to kids. Today I get to share with you a new picture book about change. It is Bear and the Whisper of the Wind by Marianne Dubuc. It is recommended for ages 4 to 8.

From the Publisher:

From the award-winning author and illustrator of Up the Mountain Path, The Fish and the Cat, and Otto & Pio comes an imaginative read-aloud picture book about one bear's journey to believe in himself and discover the beauty of change.

Bear is happy at home, eating strawberry pie and spending time with his friends. But one day, the wind whispers to Bear, calling him to embark on a surprising journey to an unknown place. He isn't sure where he is going, but he knows that everything will turn out okay if he trusts his instincts.

A sweet, delightfully illustrated tale about believing in yourself, Bear and the Whisper of the Wind shows children that change may be scary at first, but it can lead to fun, happy, and exciting things too.

From Me:

Change for kids is very scary. Whether it is a new school, a new home, or perhaps a change in the child's parents (divorce, illness, etc.), a child has no control over it. They do not get to choose the change or choose not to change. In this story Bear hears the wind telling him it is time for a change. He is not sure why he needs to leave his home that is cozy, and he loves. He doesn't know why he is leaving his friends and his favorite things, but he listens to the voice and packs a few things and heads out. The book shares that at times he was scared and others he felt free and happy. He misses his home and friends but keeps going. 

Along the way he meets new friends and finds a new home, but the wind still tells him he needs to go on. He wonders why, but he still listens and moves on. After a scary storm he discovers his new home is wonderful. He makes new friends and is happy.

I love how Bear is not sure about leaving his home. He goes through many of the emotions people go through during change. This story helps little ones realize that the feelings are normal. Change happens in our world whether we want it or not. Sometimes it is great and others it is scary. After a few years of so much change due to the pandemic, the kids need to know it is all right to be scared or feel free. It is all right to miss the old life and love the new ways. I love how this story makes change and all the feelings that go with it normal and allows the kids to see that change is part of life. I hope you will check out this sweet book!