cover image BEAR STAYS UP FOR CHRISTMAS

BEAR STAYS UP FOR CHRISTMAS

Karma Wilson, , illus. by Jane Chapman. . S&S/McElderry, $16.95 (40pp) ISBN 978-0-689-85278-7

Bear's thoughtful buddies rouse him from his deep hibernation nap just in time for Christmas Eve. With creative planning, the animals get their ursine friend into the holiday spirit—and the Yuletide preparations. And by the time Santa makes his appearance, guess who's tuckered out? (Not a certain Bear.) This duo's latest Bear book sustains the sweetness and humor of its predecessors (Bear Snores On ; Bear Wants More ) via rhyming, read-aloud-ready text and soft acrylic scenes of the cuddly creatures and wintry landscapes. Ages 3-7. (Oct.)