About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the difficult realization that loving someone or something sometimes requires letting go for their own well-being. This classic story follows Mark Andersen, a lonely boy living in the rugged Alaskan Territory, who forms an extraordinary bond with a captive brown bear named Ben. As Ben grows and external pressures mount, Mark must navigate the complex emotions of protection, sacrifice, and the transition from childhood dependency to responsible maturity. It is a poignant choice for children aged 8 to 12 who are navigating the end of a friendship, the loss of a pet, or a major life transition. Through Mark's journey, children learn that true love is selfless and that bravery often looks like making the hardest choice for the sake of another's safety and freedom.
