FINDING BEAR

A sequel that rekindles a beautiful friendship.

April and her father have left the Arctic Circle and now live in an area that’s “hustling, bustling, and jostling every crowded minute of the day,” where she struggles to adjust. Upon learning that Bear, her polar bear companion from The Last Bear (2021), is in danger, she rushes back to Svalbard. As it turns out, Bear needs her help to save his cub from starvation. To do so, April battles the hazardous Arctic climate and makes rash decisions, disregarding her dad’s concerns for her safety. April’s survival skills are inexpert, and some of her decisions are dangerous, but she bravely endures life-or-death circumstances. Ultimately, she succeeds in rescuing the cub, whom she names Peanut, and rediscovering her Arctic home in Longyearbyen. Bear provides April with actual bear hugs and becomes a sounding board for her struggles outside the Arctic. April, who reads white, resonates with animals more than her human peers. The narrative sensitively addresses climate change, wildlife biology, and related subjects through informative content that’s woven into the dialogue. April’s father is an absent afterthought, and April navigates the tundra independently. Still, her dad and his girlfriend make significant life changes to support her happiness. While some elements are far-fetched, the story validates youth activism as a worthy pursuit. Pinfold’s haunting illustrations add richness to the atmosphere.

An empowering, optimistic read for animal lovers and environmentally savvy tweens.