Review Detail

THE POLAR BEAR AND THE BALLERINA is a beautiful story of inclusion and friendship. The book is told entirely through images with a girl posing in front of a polar bear exhibit at the zoo. After she leaves and drops her red scarf, the bear climbs out, wears the scarf and goes to find her. He makes it to the show, but the people will not allow him in. The little girl hears him and brings him in, so he can watch the show. At the end, he sleeps happily having seen her dance and remembering her dance next to his exhibit with him.

What I loved: This is beautifully illustrated with every page and image looking like a gallery painting. The story is told through these images but without words, which allows children to look and consider how the characters might be feeling or what they might be thinking on their own. This imaginative and creative format opens readers to possibilities and allows them to form the story on their own. While the images guide, the details are left to the reader.

This also a great option for children who are seeking independence but not yet ready for wordy texts. They can interpret and explore this story on their own. The images are stunning and the messages of inclusion and friendship resonate throughout.

Final verdict: THE POLAR BEAR AND THE BALLERINA is a lovely and creative wordless picture book that will capture hearts and imaginations.