Bernstrom, Daniel. Bear, a Fish, and a Fishy Wish, A. Brandon James Scott, Illus. Hippo Park, 05/2024. [40]pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-1-66264-069-8. GRADES Preschool–2. ADDITIONAL.
In this follow-up to A Bear, a Bee, and a Honey Tree (2022), Bear tries to catch a fish to eat but the fish has other ideas. The rhyming text has energy and a thumping rhythm that reflects the action between the bear and fish: “a hungry bear, a homesick fish, a bear and a fish, wishing a wish.” Although the story is not memorable, it contains a surprise ending. The full-color digital artwork, which resembles gouache, is set in the forest using animals with expressive faces that add humor. Sure to be popular at storytime, with the audience calling out some of the repetition. Review based on an ARC.
Penny Peck—San José State University, iSchool