The bear in the book - Kate Banks

It's time for bed, and a little boy chooses his favourite book for his
mother to read to him. He identifies with the bear in the book who is preparing for his own
deep slumber, hibernating through the winter while humans and other
animals explore the snowy landscape around him. Just when the bear wakes
up to greet the spring, the boy drifts off to sleep.

Georg Hallensleben is a painter and children's book illustrator. His previous books include the popular George and Lily series, as well as several books by Kate Banks: If the Moon Could Talk, Close Your Eyes and Baboon. He is an exceptionally gifted painter whose child-like view of everyday life is arresting.

"This book wants for nothing . . . Utterly beautiful and compelling. Five stars."
Books for Keeps

"Delightful.
Do you like bears?
Do you like stories?
Then you'll love it, trust me."
The Bookbag

"Lovely illustrations"
EYE

"A book so sumptuous and complete it inspires a passionate dreaminess. Illuminated by lush and expressive paintings, this book explores the passion of sharing books on the lap of a loving parent."
Books for Keeps

"Hallensleben's rich, impressionistic artwork moves seamlessly between warm domestic scenes of the pair reading and vibrant natural landscapes with plenty of seasonal detail. With its quiet, gentle tone, this is perfect for one on-one bedtime reading."
Booklist - Kristen McKulski