The Bear Who Wasn’t There: And the Fabulous Forest by Oren Lavie and Wolf Erlbruch

This picture book is different from those we see most of the time.  The artwork is unique, the story line is interesting, and the German influence shows.  It's a bit more serious than a regular picture book in illustrations but the story is a bit silly.  It's odd but interesting.

Akashic Books sent me a copy of this book to read for review (thank you).  It will be published October 4th.

This bear grew from an itch.  Yes, that's what I said.  An itch went over to the tree to scratch against it and it turned into a big bear.  The poor bear didn't even know what he was when he first became aware.  It's a good thing he had a note in his pocket.  That gives him a clue.  And when he starts out on a walk, the rest of things written down become true, too.

The bear is a bit silly and whistles while he walks.  I especially liked the house he found in the woods.  Here's something for those of you who are tired of all the little bunnies and chicks found in picture books.  He's big, lost and finding his way.  You can help him find home.