About This Book
Reach for this book when your little one is starting to test their independence but still glances back to make sure you are watching. It is the perfect bridge for children who are eager to explore the world on their own terms yet experience that sudden, sharp pang of realization when they feel they have gone too far from safety. The story follows two bear cubs who venture out into the woods, enjoying the thrill of discovery until the shadows grow long and the world feels a bit too big. Ann Jonas uses sparse text and evocative illustrations to mirror the internal experience of a toddler or preschooler: the swing between brave curiosity and the desperate need for a hug. It is a comforting, gentle read that validates a child's desire to grow while promising that a parent's watchful eye and warm embrace are never truly out of reach. Perfect for ages 2 to 5, it serves as a gentle rehearsal for the natural ebb and flow of attachment and independence.
