Strong As A Bear
Strong As A Bear
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Written and illustrated by Katrin Stangl
Translated from German by Belinda Cooper
Consisting of idioms (including a few made-up ones), this book presents illustrations that are sweet, funny, thoughtful and beautifully composed. The pictures tell a story about the relationships and emotions that run between and connect humans to other animals. Forceful in language, concept, and color, this book is also big-hearted in how it renders children, animals, their feelings and expressions.
ISBN: 978-1-59270-198-8
8.5" (W) x 11" (H) • 40 pages • HCJ
AWARDS AND REVIEWS
"With their strong primary (and secondary) colors, flat shapes enhanced with a panoply of pattern, and dynamic, slightly absurd designs, the book’s images of children and animals cavorting are reminiscent of vintage Soviet graphics. [...] Whether the condition is thirsty, stubborn, chatty, or curious, the language is luscious, the scenes command attention, and the conversational possibilities are myriad. [...] A celebration of expression―in both senses of the word." ―Kirkus Reviews
"The saturated crayon-box colors of Stangl’s prints are downright eye-popping, while the everyday familiarity of the 26 scenes create natural lead-ins for discussion of the emotions, activities, and animals pictured." ―Publishers Weekly
"An explosion of colorful vitality. The simple text enunciates a list of animal qualities that children will easily identify with, and the full page illustrations will easily delight adults too. The book's vibrant chromatic quality was achieved thanks to a printing process using four different pantone colors." ―Animalarium
"Forceful in language, concept, and color, this book is also big-hearted in how it renders children, animals, their feelings and expressions." ―Rizzoli Bookstore (New York, NY)
"This is a delightful, appealingly crafted way to introduce similes and enhance children’s vocabulary. German graphic artist Stangl’s striking bold style for this title caused it to be recognized as one of Germany’s most beautiful books in 2012, and it is just as likely to impress in the U.S." ―Booklist
"Forceful in language, concept, and color, Strong As A Bear is also big-hearted in how it renders children, animals, their feelings and expressions. Exceptionally well written and drawn from first page to last" ―The Picturebook Shelf
"Children will allow their creative imagination to take over and immerse themselves fully in the fun aspect of this book." ―Sarah Yewman, Picture Books Blogger
”Stangl's bold, primary color illustrations bring the similes vividly to life, and the primitive style conveys a cheeky playfulness. … Striking graphics and artful design make this a standout option for those seeking concept books.” —Linda Ludke, London Public Library, School Library Journal