The Bear Must Go on

In this hilarious story of theatrical hijinks, plans go awry when four woodland friends stage a show--unless Bear can step up and save the day!

Bear and his woodland friends are putting on a show, and there are lots of plans to be made. Their curtains need sequins! Their hats must be very, very tall! And their tickets have to be shiny! (No one will come if the tickets are dull.)

Behind the scenes, shy Bear takes notes on every detail until his paws ache. But at least he won't have to go on stage. He could NEVER do that!

. . . Or could he?

In this uproarious tale of theatrical mishaps told with hilariously endearing art, four woodland friends bring down the house--and have plenty of fun along the way.

Praise for The Bear Must Go On

A snort-inducing lesson of both bravery and preparation. --Kirkus Reviews

The rewarding finale . . . applauds facing one's fears, being a good friend, and keeping an eye on the big picture. --Publishers Weekly

Witty and wonderful . . . A cheerful story, conveying the joy of creation, the fun of friendship, and the beauty of stepping outside one's comfort zone. --Booklist

Youngsters who find the spotlight too bright might be inspired by Bear's turn on the stage, and show stealers may also reconsider and revalue the contributions of pals who stay behind the scenes. --BCCB

This playful and endearing story offers young readers a heartfelt message about collaboration and overcoming fear, making it an excellent choice for most collections. --SLJ

Author: Dev Petty
Publisher: Philomel Books
Published: 02/11/2020
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.85lbs
Size: 10.40h x 9.10w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781984837479
Audience: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 12/01/2019
Publishers Weekly 12/09/2019
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 01/01/2020
Booklist 01/01/2020 pg. 98
School Library Journal 02/01/2020 pg. 55

About the Author
Dev Petty (devpetty.com) is the author of I Don't Want to Be a Frog, I Don't Want to Be Big, There's Nothing to Do!, I Don't Want to Go to Sleep, and Claymates. A graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz, Dev previously worked as a visual-effects artist in film, contributing to such movies as the Matrix trilogy. Dev was born and raised in Berkeley, California, and now lives right next door in Albany with her husband, two daughters, some dogs, and other critters. Follow Dev on Twitter @devpetty.

Brandon Todd (btoddbooks.com) can't carry a tune but can (and does) carry a sketchbook with him. The Bear Must Go On is his debut picture book. He lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with his wife, two daughters, and an Italian greyhound named Mulva. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram @heybtodd.