Got to Get to Bear’s!

Expressive artwork distinguishes this celebration of working together by Lies (The Rough Patch). “Dear Izzy,” a note from Bear reads. “Please come at once!” It’s starting to snow, but Izzy the chipmunk starts out gamely, swinging lantern in tow. Soon, she’s up to her snout in drifts, and Scritch the squirrel offers her a lift: “The treetop road is the way.” As she clings to his green jacket, he swings from branch to branch until it gets too slippery. Then Bingle the duck takes to the air with the pair (“Skyway is better than battling branches!”), and Snaffle the raccoon steps in to get the group to Bear’s door just before the snow covers them all. In the end, an unexpected surprise awaits Izzy, and the friends convene in front of a warm fire, safe and jovial. The spreads show detail in high definition: every stitch on Bear’s cabled sweater can be counted, and snow particles fly with startling realism as Bingle flaps through the storm. This warmhearted friendship adventure is a good choice for sharing at bedtime, or during a classroom break, in any weather. Ages 4–7. Agent: Erin Murphy, Erin Murphy Literary. (Oct.)