★“A profound, realistic story of a multiracial family...This brilliantly written tale is a lovely introduction to the important topics of wildfires and animal sanctuaries for young readers. Great for animal lovers and children curious about nature.”—School Library Journal, starred review
On returning to their home after a massive wildfire, nine-year-old Jasmin and her seven-year-old brother, Hunter, thought the biggest surprise would be whether their fire-resistant house had survived.
Jasmin and Hunter did not expect to find an orphaned bear cub stuck in the neighbors’ well. Rescuing the tiny cub from the well was the easy part; now they need to care for it until the people from the bear-rescue sanctuary can make it safely through the fires to pick it up. The cub turns out to be exactly what one would expect of a wild animal—a huge handful!
The latest Orca Echoes early chapter book from award-winning author Eric Walters was inspired by Eric’s visit to a wildlife sanctuary in Northern British Columbia. Bear in the Family tells the fictionalized story of a bear cub found by a family after the forest surrounding their home was destroyed by a wildfire.
The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
★“A profound, realistic story of a multiracial family returning to their rural home after a wildfire...This touching story provides much-needed insight into the effects of wildfires on humans and animals alike...This brilliantly written tale is a lovely introduction to the important topics of wildfires and animal sanctuaries for young readers. Great for animal lovers and children curious about nature.”
– School Library Journal, starred review
“Clearly and well-told, touching on pertinent topics such as wild-fires and the need for wildlife sanctuaries. Recommended.”
– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“Educating readers about wildlife rehabilitation centers is woven throughout this thoughtful, relatable, and interesting tale. Recommended.”
– School Library Connection
“Highly engaging…While the story centers on the bear rescue, the loving and sensible family dynamic offers a firm foundation for the larger story about wildfires and rural community response.”
– Cooperative Children's Book Center
Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express Fiction Award | 2023 | Winner
Cooperative Children's Book Center Choices | 2023 | Commended
CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens | 2022 | Commended
Bank Street College of Education Children's Book Committee Best Children's Books of the Year | 2023 | Commended
