My dad is a bear by Nicola Connelly. Illus. by Annie White

In this gorgeous board book a little bear describes all the things about his dad. He is tall and round, and soft and furry. He can climb and swim and growls, all like a bear, but there is one thing that he does best and that is give bear hugs.

The narrative is short and would read aloud well to very young children, who will be able to join in with the words 'like a bear'. There is one well constructed sentence and a complementary illustration on each of the thick, strong double spreads, which would help children who might like to try and read for themselves.

The illustrations by Annie White are an absolute delight. The father bear is brown and fuzzy and the baby bear on the front cover, with his adorable grin, is very appealing. A little blue bird appears on each double spread and will be a detail that children will want to find, while the hare with its long ears and pink paws is unforgettable.

This would make an excellent gift from a young child to give to Dad on Father's Day and reading it together would bring many feel good moments and memories to share. It is sure to become a family favourite.

Themes: Bears, Love.

Pat Pledger