Families who loved I Sure Am Glad to See You, Blackboard Bear by Martha Alexander often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child comes home feeling small, overlooked, or frustrated by the 'big kids' in the neighborhood. It is the perfect tool for children who are navigating the tricky waters of playground politics and need a reminder of their own inner strength. The story follows little Anthony, who uses his imagination to bring a large blackboard bear to life. This silent, supportive companion helps him navigate encounters with children who are being unkind or exclusionary. While the book addresses themes of bullying and social isolation, it does so through a gentle, empowering lens. It emphasizes that a child's imagination and self-worth can be their greatest shield. The illustrations are soft and the text is minimal, making it highly accessible for preschoolers and early elementary students. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's feelings of being 'picked on' while offering a creative, non-violent model for standing tall and finding peace in one's own company.
