The Secret and Other Stories
(Bear and Bird #6)

Gr 1-2--Four stories demonstrate the funny consequences of missing out on important information. In "The List," Bird is angry at a perceived slight by her friend Bear, so she concocts a list of the rudest names she can think of--egregious epithets like "Stinky Sock Muffin"--to leave for him. Unfortunately, she accidentally gives the list to a friend going to the store for her, then leaves her shopping list on Bear's doorstep. Each story is equally tangled: Bear and Bird decide they can't be friends because they have nothing in common except a distaste for zingleberry juice; Bear accidentally keeps a secret despite his record of being a blabbermouth; and a game of hide-and-seek turns into a pleasant day in a tree for the two friends when it turns out no one is looking for them. Bear and Bird are a case study for the comedy that arises from simple misunderstandings. Reconciliations between the friends are sincere, but never twee. Digitally rendered textured watercolors in abundant cool colors create a sweet and charming forest world. VERDICT Jarvis has turned out another winner in this highly recommended early reader series.--Rachel Owens

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