This is not a typical story of rescuing a poor orphan, but as the author puts it, a story of belonging. You will feel soft-bearish after reading, "Nikolai, the Only Bear."
Illustrations
Illustrated by Renata Liwska, "Nikolai, the Only Bear"'s art is beautiful in muted colors. They perfectly accompany the story and reflect what soft-bearish must feel like. If Nikolai's story doesn't grab your heart, the illustrations will.
Born in Poland and now living in Canada, Liwska's work has been recognized by magazines and the Society of Illustrators. "Nikolai, the Only Bear" is her first picture book.
About the Author
Author Barbara Joosse, got the idea for "Nikolai, the Only Bear" from her friend whose grandson was recently adopted from Russia. After meeting the child, Joosse knew she wanted to write about him and share his story. She wanted Nikolai to be a character with dignity and love just like the little child she met. She accomplished this goal with "Nikolai, the Only Bear."
Barbara Joosse is the author of several books including "Hot City", "I Love You the Purplest", and "Mama, Do You Love Me?". She lives with her family in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Learn more about Joosse at her website.Final Thoughts and Information
I have read some reviews that felt that "Nikolai, the Only Bear" missed the mark by misrepresenting what a Russian orphanage is really like. Some felt that this would confuse adopted Russian children since the book unrealistically depicts Russian orphanages as wonderful places where there is one caregiver per child. I feel that those reviewers missed the point that the author set out to make. She wanted a book that focuses on strong children finding homes where they don't have to change or become what their adoptive parents are dreaming about. They are accepted and loved as they are - even if they are behind developmentally, don't play well with other children or, in Nikolai's case, are bears that growl and claw the air.
"Nikolai, the Only Bear" would be a great addition to any family's book shelf, especially for those touched by adoption. It is a story of acceptance and love. It would be a great gift for an international adoptive family.
"Nikolai, the Only Bear" is recommended for children ages 4-8.(Published by Philomel Books, a division of Penguin Young Readers Group, 2005
ISBN 0-399-23884-0)
From a Young Reader - Jordan age 7
"I loved this book. I think the author really used her imagination. Instead of using people she used a bear to show that Nikolai was different than the other kids. It was very cute."
