Product Description

The author-illustrator of "On Your Potty! has created another reassuring tale of family love that's perfectly tuned to the thoughts, feelings, and actions of toddlers. Full color.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1488544 in Books
• Published on: 1998-11-04
• Released on: 1998-11-04
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 32 pages

From Publishers Weekly
Young Bartholomew ("Ba") is entirely out of sorts in Miller's (On Your Potty!; Be Gentle!) latest on-target tale starring the endearing duo Ba and George. On a winter's walk with big bear George, Ba's ears are cold and his legs feel "too stumpy"; back home, his porridge is "too lumpy" and "his tummy too plumpy." Though he hides under a chair at bath time and tries to squirm out of George's arms (issuing multiple "Nahs") en route to the tub, the comforting elder bear keeps his cool and?drenched by the squirming, splashing bather?pronounces the winning words of the book's title. Though Miller's quirky, ear-pleasing rhymes may well elicit giggles, the book's humor in large part emanates from her unadorned, softly focused depictions of these cuddly characters. Their facial expressions, poses and interactions illuminate not only the contrast between George's patience and Ba's obstinacy, but the warm bond between the two as well. The pair's many loyal fans and the story's popular theme of unconditional love ensure that this book will make a splash. Ages 2-5.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Bartholomew ("Ba"), the young bear whose sole speech is the word "Nah," and his long-suffering adult are back. The cub is having a bad day, despite George's patient assistance. Finally, George tells the youngster, "I love you just the way you are," and sends him off to bed in a better frame of mind. Large, simple illustrations show invitingly plump bears and the familiar accoutrements of toddler life (high chair, bib, etc.). The animals' expressive faces and the depictions of Bartholomew's various behaviors extend the slight plot and minimal text. Large typeface, plenty of white space, and full- and double-page spreads are just right for the very young. Some of the rhymes verge on the overly cute (his "porridge was too lumpy,/his tummy too plumpy"), but that won't keep parents and toddlers from recognizing the on-target scenario. This story about unconditional love will be welcomed by fans of the earlier titles about this pair.
Faith Brautigam, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin, IL
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Kirkus Reviews
Bartholomew (or Ba) and George return (Be Gentle!, 1997, etc.) for another demonstration of unconditional love. Miller tackles one of the confusing toddlerhood feelings: sheer, unprovoked grumpiness. Bartholomew is having a bad day, for his ears are cold, his legs are stumpy, his porridge is lumpy, and his tummy is plumpy. Georgean all-purpose ursine angel, brother, father, pal, guardian, caregiver, there-for-you archetype--always has a comforting word, gesture, or act. George is pure solace to younger listeners, and a sweet role model for older ones. The illustrations have a light, homey feel, a mix of humble domesticity and charm. (Picture book. 2-5) -- Copyright ©1998, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Customer Reviews

Heartwarming Childrens Story
This is a charming tale about unconditional love for a child. "Big Bear" and "little Bear" spend a typical day together where the little bear is grumpy and fractious (a day any mother of a toddler will recognise)but in the "Big Bear" never loses patience. All the stories in this series are huge favouries with me and my toddler as they are always a delight to read out loud with adorable illustrations.

Brilliant!
My two year old has tons of books, but this is by far his favorite! We read it two or three times each night. Every parent can identify with George and every toddler has a little ba in them! Heartwarming and Brilliant! Hooray for Virginia Miller!

Award winner
This book was awarded a Platinum Award by Oppenheimer Toy Portfolio. It is a lovely book that children enjoy. I would recommend it to any parent, auntie, or grandparent.