On All Fours [Forthcoming!]
On All Fours [Forthcoming!]
Written & illustrated by Gaëtan Dorémus
Translated from French by Emilie Robert Wong
A bear cub sets out to discover the world—with a little encouragement from a nearby parent—in this charming picture book from the author-illustrator of New York Times Best Illustrated Book Bear Despair.
The best way to explore the world is on all fours! With its four little paws, a curious bear cub dances across pebbles, feels the tickling grass, splishes and splashes in puddles. So delightful are the curious cub’s encounters that even prickly weeds or a little tumble are just part of the fun!
From sensory experience to sensory experience, the bear cub goes on a journey of discovery and surprise that leads it far away from where it started. Perhaps even too far away? Help!! But the moment of panic is soon resolved when the cub is lifted up by two loving arms into a big hug from a parent.
From acclaimed author-illustrator Gaëtan Dorémus, a charming, brightly colored picture book about exploration, play, budding independence, and security.
ISBN: 978-1-59270-388-3 • 7.3” (W) x 8.9” (H) • 40 pages • HCJ
REVIEWS
STARRED REVIEW! ★ "A toddler bear takes a tactile journey in this translation of a French title… The compositions provide a rich aesthetic experience with gorgeous multihued backgrounds that change to reflect the mood and the little one’s body language. The scenes brim with delightful details, such as a crimson spider that reacts to each situation… Dorémus’ luscious, emotive illustrations will inspire frequent readings. The spare, repetitive narration lends itself well to memorization; be prepared for little ones to shout out their favorite lines. Youngsters will relish the ride from exploration to reunion." —Kirkus
"Throughout a lively picture book, Dorémus captures simple miracles of moving the body and exploring the world. Observational text—'On all fours, here I am on Earth'—accompanies saturated spreads of an ambling blue bear cub... Texturally rich spreads attend to splashing water, sloppy mud, and slippery slides as the cub meets the small mishaps that befall new navigators. Masses of color, fine lines, and comforting words capture an era of young life when commonplace experiences are new." —Publishers Weekly