Good Luck Bear

March 1, 2009
PreS-This third book about a sweet little bear who is learning small, important lessons in heartwarming ways opens with the happy discovery of a three-leaf clover. Bear's worries begin when Mouse says, "If you find one with four leaves, it means that you're lucky." As Bear searches for one, the other animals tell him that he'll never be successful, making him feel "very unlucky." True to form, Foley brings the story to a surprising and uplifting conclusion that reinforces the joys of friendship. This gifted graphic artist has an inspired understanding of a young child's world. He isn't timid about employing almost identical pictures on each page: a mound of green grass, a sprinkling of clover, the small bear, andin most casesone other animal. The background is always a clean, bright white. Each opposing page, on which the text resides, has a different pastel shade. The most essential variations are the succession of featured critters and Bear's position and expression in response to each of them. The simplicity of the text, theme, and illustrations makes this an excellent choice for the very young.Susan Weitz, formerly at Spencer-Van Etten School District, Spencer, NY

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 15, 2008
Preschool When Bears friend Mouse informs him that a clover with four leaves means that youre lucky, he begins to search for one. One by one, other animals stop by with comments on his quest. As time goes by, Bear feels increasingly unlucky until Mouse stops by again and makes a discovery that lifts Bears spirits. Like Thank You Bear (2007) and Dont Worry Bear (2008), this unpretentious picture book uses a few expressive lines, a few flat colors, and minimal shading to tell a story with a twist at the end. A simple picture book for young children.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2009
Mouse tells Bear that finding a four-leaf clover brings luck. Bear combs a little green hill for one, facing pessimism and competition from other friends. In the end, he realizes he was lucky all along. Though the specifics are a letdown, the theme will resonate with readers. Spare illustrations offer touches of emotion to the simply told tale.

(Copyright 2009 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)