The Bear who had Nothing to Wear

When it comes to a rhyming text, there are very few picture book writers who do it as well as Jeanne Willis and she’s on top form in this tale of Albie the bear. Clothes conscious Albie is determined to find the outfit that suits him perfectly. But what could that be, when one day he’s a prince, and the next a Fairy Queen? He tries on and then discards more and more outfits until, knee deep in a cowpat (his Country Bear day), the truth finally dawns. Discarding (nearly) all his clothes, he is free to be entirely himself. It’s a treat to read aloud, and illustrator Brian Fitzgerald has great fun depicting Albie’s different outfits and changing moods. Tucked in amongst the fun, there are gentle messages about identity and choice too. This is bound to be a huge favourite with children.