Shirley Parenteau Knihy

A family of irresistibly sweet bears in an irresistibly sweet bedtime story.

“Tender and funny, this story of friendship and family is reminiscent of Beverly Cleary’s work.” — School Library Journal It’s 1926, and eleven-year-old Lexie Lewis wants to leave Portland, Oregon, where she has been staying with her strict grandparents, and rejoin her mother, a singer in San Francisco. Meanwhile, Lexie’s class has been raising money to ship a doll to the children of Japan in a friendship exchange — and when Lexie learns that the girl who writes the best letter will be chosen to go to the farewell ceremony in San Francisco, she knows she just has to be the winner. Inspired by a project in which U.S. children sent more than 12,000 Friendship Dolls to Japan in hopes of avoiding a future war, Shirley Parenteau’s engaging story has sure appeal for readers who enjoy historical fiction and for doll lovers of all ages.

When America and Japan go to war, will Macy's feelings for her beloved Japanese Friendship Doll change? Bringing the story of the Friendship Dolls forward to World War II, Parenteau delivers another thoughtful historical novel inspired by a little-known true event. 5 1/2 x 7 13/16.

Four chairs. Four adorable bears. All is well until Big Brown Bear shows up -- what a stare -- and wants a seat. Can these clever bears put their heads together (among other things) and make space for one more?

The story revolves around a group of adorable bears eagerly preparing for Halloween, facing the challenge of whether there are enough costumes for all of them. As they navigate their excitement and the potential for disappointment, themes of friendship and sharing come to the forefront, making it a delightful read for young audiences.

When Big Brown Bear tries to get four very dirty, little bears into the bath tub, they resist his efforts, until he shows them how much fun baths can be.

Featuring an adorable plush bear alongside a charming board book, this delightful set emphasizes the joy of sharing. Perfect for young readers, it combines cuddly companionship with engaging storytelling, making the concept of sharing both fun and irresistible for little ones.

Chiyo, the endearing protagonist, navigates her journey of self-discovery while grappling with her place in the world. The narrative offers a captivating exploration of Japanese culture, enriching the reader's understanding of the societal nuances and traditions that shape Chiyo's experiences. Through her struggles, readers gain insight into both personal growth and cultural identity.

In a delightful winter adventure, Big Brown Bear invents a clever sled capable of carrying four bears, sparking joy and excitement among his friends. The story captures the spirit of friendship and creativity, showcasing how teamwork leads to fun-filled moments in the snowy landscape.