“One day Big Bear says to Little Bear, I’m just in the mood for fishing.” Little Bear promptly agrees that he, too, is “just in the mood,” and the bears don their fishing pants, jackets, and boots. “Now they are ready for fishing. Almost.” There are some things fishermen need. Poles, for example, which they load in their wagon. “Now they are ready for fishing. Almost.” Big Bear remembers that fishermen also need “nice, warm blueberry scones,” which they bake together, and “a book with stories.” The bears pull their wagon to the river and climb into their rowboat. They wait patiently, but the fish aren’t biting. Thank goodness the fishermen have brought along scones and a storybook to pass the time. When a fish finally does appear, the bears “look at Fish and Fish looks back. Nobody moves. Nobody blinks.” Perhaps unsurprisingly, the fishermen do not manage to catch the fish. But “Big Bear puts his arm around Little Bear. Together they watch the light on the lake. They think about Fish.” Back home, their hammock awaits, promising continued relaxation. With gentle humor, pleasing repetition, and carefully chosen words, this quiet, lovely tale feels like a classic. Little Bear’s imitation and obvious admiration of Big Bear are endearing, and careful readers will realize that quality time together—not catching fish—was always the goal. 

An unhurried fishing trip, with blueberry scones in tow, introduces a new bear duo sure to charm fans of Little Bear and Frog and Toad.

One day Big Bear says to Little Bear,
I’m just in the mood for fishing.
Me, too, says Little Bear. Just in the mood.

With this decided, Big Bear and Little Bear are off… almost. First they need the right attire, poles in a red wagon, a basket of freshly-baked scones, and a good book to read. It’s unclear how much real fishing will get done today, but one thing’s for sure: there will be a cozy nap in the hammock at the end.

Adults who grew up with classic stories about friendship and caring will feel an immediate resonance in the low-stakes adventures of these two adorable bears. Amy Hest’s wry text sets a pitch-perfect mood, and Caldecott Medalist Erin Stead brings fine art to each bucolic illustration. Big Bear and Little Bear Go Fishing is a treat for all ages and is sure to find a treasured place on shelves for years to come.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection