FIREBEARS

Andreasen’s 1950s–hued décor adds quaintness to this exceptional look into a day in the life of firemen, or rather, firebears. These cheery-faced, cub-sized civil servants of Fire Station Number Eight are on call night and day. Suddenly, “Ding-Ling-Ling!” Turn the book vertically to see the bears rush, “Through the hole. / Hurry, slip-slide down / the / pole!” The brave firebears race through town in their apple-red fire engine: “Firebears / Speed through town, / siren wailing up and down.” Beneath a powder-blue sky, they pass adorable cottages on quiet streets. Their first call of the day is easy: A cat up a tree. But hold on, an urgent message! This time a store’s ablaze. The bears douse the fire to a cheering crowd of townsfolk, or rather, town dogs. However, their work is not yet done as again the radio urges them on. Another vertical shows a house billowing gray smoke. This time they must save more than buildings. Green has written an exciting and charming ode to all firefighting heroes, whatever their species, aimed at the young cubs who will love the excitement. (Picture book. 2-5)