– A Most Unusual Polar Bear –

• Author: Dan Bar-el
  • Illustrator: Kelly Pousette
  • Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
  • Publication Date: September 3, 2019
  • Genre: Middle Grade
  • Excerpt
  • Hardcover: 272 pages
  • Ages: 8 – 12
  • Grades: 3 – 7

My Thoughts

The minute I started reading this book it became apparent that the writing style was quite unique. And enjoyable.

Duane the polar bear is ready to take the reader on a wonderful adventure. He meets new friends, discovers a talent for giving names to his friends, and loves to explore the very, very far north.

One morning as he strolls down the cold ocean shoreline he spots a shipwreck in the distance. Duane, who is quite inquisitive swims out and discovers an owl working in the unsubmerged captain’s quarters of the wreck. C.C., the name Duane assigns to the snowy owl, is studying so that he can acquire knowledge to share, “toward the benefit of all.” To prove it, C.C. immediately informs Duane that he is a polar bear.

There are plenty of humorous misunderstandings and each animal brings a unique personality to the story. As an example, Handsome the musk ox is often distracted by his own reflection. (Remember that Duane named the ox.)

The Very Very Far North is a unique writing style that is apt to appeal to many young readers.

My thanks to #NetGalley and #Atheneum for the opportunity to review this book. The ability to do so has in no way altered my thoughts.

What Concerned Me

The whole time I was reading, I kept wondering about the content, vocabulary, and the grade level of the story. Some of the words in the book felt fairly advanced: lackadaisical, subsequent, archenemy, menace, scourge, excursion, chagrined, and enthralled, to name a few. Maybe definitions at the back would have helped.

I was also concerned that the story would hold the attention of older kids. And would the younger of the middle-grade kids be able to both read and understand some of the words. However, you might also consider that I’m not up-to-date on how intelligent today’s kids are. I’d prefer that to be my real concern!

Final Thoughts

I see this as a book teachers might read to their classrooms. It’s a fun story, and there’s plenty of opportunities for discussions. As a classroom book this would also allow teachers to explain words or situations. And, of course, this would also apply to any situation where an adult was reading it with a child.

I loved the humor, illustrations, and the dialog of each animal. And it was so easy to visualize each character. In fact, I even smiled as I considered a plush Duane-the-polar-bear being available for purchase. (Okay, maybe that’s my fantasy!)

I’d say the quirkiness of this story will cause you to pass judgement quickly. You’ll either be enthralled with the story or declare it not your cup of tea.

Rating

About The Author:

Dan Bar-el is an award-winning children’s author, educator, and storyteller whose books include Audrey (cow), Not Your Typical Dragon, and The Very, Very Far North. Dan has worked with children ages three to thirteen as a school-age childcare provider, a preschool teacher, a creative drama teacher, and a creative writing teacher. He also teaches with the Creative Writing for Children Society. Dan lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, with artist and goldsmith Dominique Bréchault, and Sasha, the most adorable cat in the known universe. Visit him at DanBarel.com.

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