HAROLD HATES TO HIBERNATE

Worried his crow friends will forget him when he hibernates, Harold refuses to let himself fall asleep.

Harold hopes the fall days he spends with his pals will never end, but each day shortens “until it’s dark before playtime has even begun.” When the other bears remind Harold that it’s almost time for hibernation, he decides to find a way to stay awake. With the crows by his side supporting him, Harold tries to fight off his sleepiness, to no avail. Although this follow-up to Harold Loves His Woolly Hat (2018) expands on the relationship between Harold and the crows, familiarity with the first book isn’t necessary to enjoy the sequel—and readers will be happy to see that there’s more give-and-take this time. Expressive and dynamic watercolor, pencil, and pen illustrations accompany this gentle story about life transitions and long-lasting friendships. Each time Harold thinks of a new idea to stay awake, the crows fly away. Page turns build suspense, but they always return with a gift to help Harold, who declares with escalating emphasis that he doesn’t need to hibernate. This paired repetition lends itself to audience engagement during storytime and creates a satisfying narrative arc. As Harold finally accepts that he needs sleep, the resolution offers reassurance without dismissing his emotional journey.

Sweet and soothing.