I'm thrilled to be reviewing and giving away two fun picture books today...
I Am Bear
(I Am Bear #1)
By Ben Bailey Smith
Illustrated by Sav Akyuz
March 8, 2016
Candlewick Press
Source: pub
The multitalented Ben Bailey Smith (aka rapper Doc Brown) debuts a rollicking read-aloud about a decidedly mischievous bear.
I am Bear.
And I am bare.
The suit I wear has purple hair.
Bear fills his day with food, funny jokes, tricks on his friends — and an escape right off the page when they all chase him in pursuit! With jaunty rap-style rhyme, first-time children’s author Ben Bailey Smith joins debut illustrator Sav Akyuz for a picture book starring a lovable, slightly naughty bear whose antics will have young children smiling in solidarity.
Bear Moves
(I am Bear #2)
by Ben Bailey Smith
illustrated by Sav Akyuz
October 26, 2018
Candlewick Press
Source: from pub
In a high-energy sequel to I Am Bear, the dance-loving star rolls out a variety of dance moves and inspires kids to try some of their own.
Get up, get down,
hit the ground . . .
Bear's in a dancing mood, and his friend Bunny is happy to help out with the boom box. With moves like Furry Breaking, Running Bear (you run but don't go anywhere), and the classic back spin, who could blame observers who might want to bust a move of their own? Actor/rapper Ben Bailey Smith (aka Doc Brown) and artist Sav Akyuz team up again for a lively two-step with the multitalented Bear.
Author Ben Bailey Smith and illustrator Sav Akyuz offer readers two hilarious books featuring the greatest purple suit wearing bare bear you’ll ever meet in I Am Bear and Bear Moves!
Through short, yet clever and laugh out loud rhymes, we are introduced to this truly one of a kind bear, his silly daily antics, and unusual hobbies in I Am Bear. And in Bear Moves this dynamic writing and illustrating team return for a bearry fun dance party. The irresistibly charming Bear break dances, foxtrots, and tangoes his way through the pages of the wildly funny Bear Moves! Smith’s whimsically humorous text will amuse and entertain little readers, while Akyuz’s engaging illustrations, with their bright pops of colors and lively action, will captivate delight.
With their giggle inducing lyrical text, outrageously fun action, and an adorably unforgettable star, both I Am Bear and Bear Moves are perfect read aloud picture books that little readers will love!
Ben Bailey Smith is a U.K.-based rapper (known as Doc Brown), an actor on the British edition of Law & Order and the British kids’ show 4 O’Clock Club, and a stand-up comedian. Now he adds a new facet to his career: children’s-book author. He lives in London.
Sav Akyuz is a first-time children’s-book illustrator who has worked as a storyboard artist on TV programs and feature films. He lives in London.
Win a set of I Am Bear and Bear Moves!
The folks at Candlewick Press have offered one copy of each book for one winner.
-US/CAN only
-no PO boxes
-ends 12/26/18
-winner will be emailed and must claim prize within 48 hours
-Word Spelunking is not responsible for lost, damaged, stolen prizes