Albert the Bear [Hardcover]

Nick Butterworth (Author, Illustrator)

Book Description

Age Level: 3 and up | Grade Level: P and up

When Albert arrives in Mr. Jolly's toy shop, the other toys think he is the saddest-looking bear they have ever seen. Determined to cheer him up, the toys spring into action. But underneath his frown, Albert the bear has a surprise of his own. . . .

Nick Butterworth's vibrant illustrations and memorable characters tell a delightfully charming story filled with giggles -- and some very big laughs indeed!

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

PreSchool-K-A slight, flawed story. When Albert arrives at Mr. Jolly's toy store, the other playthings stare at his sad expression and decide to cheer him up. They put on a show, resulting in a series of mishaps that culminates with Sally the dancing hippo crashing into the bear and leaving a huge pair of smiling lipstick stains on his face. This leads to much laughter, especially from Albert, who has been trying to explain all along that he only looks sad. The story is a bit long for its intended audience, and the logic of Sally kissing Albert when she crashes into him is rather odd. At times the text does not flow smoothly. However, the illustrations are large, lively, and animated, and would work well either one-on-one or with a group. Children will also enjoy finding some of their favorite characters from other stories hidden in the pictures, including Kipper, Paddington, Bob the Builder, and Elmer the patchwork elephant. Libraries with a strong following for Butterworth will most likely find an audience for this book, but others can pass on it.
Amy Lilien-Harper, The Ferguson Library, Stamford, CT
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Review

The illustrations are large, lively,and animated (School Library Journal )

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 3 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: HarperCollins (September 16, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0060536888
• ISBN-13: 978-0060536886
• Product Dimensions: 10.7 x 10.5 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #651,871 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Charming and a wonderful message for all of us, January 4, 2004

By 

L. Craigo "Shoe Goddess" (Elkhart, Indiana United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Albert the Bear (Hardcover)

This book is so amusing and will keep a child's interest throughout the story as the other toys decide that Albert needs some cheering up. While Albert tries to stop them so sweetly, the story becomes terribly funny as the toys basically make matters worse. The moral? Don't believe what you see. Such a lovely story about an adorable little bear who showed his friends a different perspective!

5.0 out of 5 stars Poohlady, February 26, 2011

By 

Mary B. Romanowski - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Albert the Bear (Hardcover)

This book is a book about caring, compassion, and concern for a friend which many children need to learn about in today's society. It is a heartwarming story as well as comical and the illustrations are wonderful. I would recommend this book for young and old alike.

5.0 out of 5 stars I beg to differ, April 15, 2008

By 

S Wagenhals "Resolute Sussex" (Minnesota) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Albert the Bear (Hardcover)

I LOVE Albert the Bear! He is so very, very sad looking but actually a happy spirit inside. The illustrations in this lovely book are enchanting and captivating. I eagerly await the next Albert book later this year (2008).