Customer Reviews

The Bonsai Bear

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This story of a well meaning bonsai artist who wants to keep an orphan bear small using bonsai techniques is very well written and moving. The conflict between wanting to control, but recognizing that it's necessary to allow growth and development is central to the story. It is beautifully done, and the illustrations are perfect for the story.

This middle-aged reader loved this elegant little book. It does what great folk tales do: it hits you right in the heart, haunting and delighting you long after the final page. The vibrant watercolor illustrations marry beautifully with the story. I look forward to introducing the children in my life to Issa, Kyomi, and Doukeshi.

This is a pleasantly illustrated tale of a childless couple in Japan who adopt a bear cub. The husband is a master at bonsai, the art of shaping miniature trees. He shapes the bear so that it doesn't grow up and can stay in the family. The wife prevails upon him to let the bear grow up and return to the wild.

Suitable for ages 8-12.