“This enjoyable romp is sure to elicit giggles… Young readers and listeners will laugh out loud as they closely examine the pictures and find the jokes in this highly interactive urban adventure.” - Kirkus Reviews
“To her credit, the question of the narrator’s identity—and reliability—may not come up for readers until book’s end. If they do wonder, the diverting story and illustrations help to keep it a surprise. After the bear returns to the forest, the silver-tongued narrator’s subterfuge quickly falls apart, and the truth is unleashed (“Ruff! Ruff! Ruff! Ruff! Ruff!”). The book stands up to repeat readings; the illustrations (and endpapers) beg for more attention.” - Horn Book, Starred review
“Lush, color-drenched paintings…” “charming” - Wall Street Journal
“This story is mischief-making at its finest. And just like a good sandwich, it’s hard to resist.” - Book Page
“While the bear storyline is entertaining in itself, the ending twist will equally delight kids who love to spot untruths, and a second reading for hints as to the narrator’s credibility may well be in order.”
— The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, Starred review
“The illustrations in this book are terrific: color-drenched and bold slashes that cover the pages.” — School Library Journal, Starred review
Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Master List SELECTION
Bank Street College Best Children’s Book of the Year SELECTION
California Young Reader Master List SELECTION
Florida Sunshine State Book Master List SELECTION
Georgia Children’s Book Master List SELECTION
Horn Book Fanfare SELECTION
Indiana Young Hoosier Master List SELECTION
New York State Charlotte Master List SELECTION
Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Award SELECTION
Tennessee Volunteer State Book Master List SELECTION
Utah Children’s Book Award SELECTION
Wyoming Bucakaroo Master List SELECTION
Ezra Jack Keats New Writer/Illustrator Award HONOR 2016
