Bear Feels Sad
The Bear Books Series
What’s inside...
Bear Feels Sad is a gentle picture-book in verse that follows Bear as he wakes up feeling gloomy and can’t understand why. His woodland friends—Mouse, Hare, Badger, and the rest of the familiar cast—notice his downcast mood and work together to comfort him. Through kindness, shared play, and quiet listening, they help Bear name his feelings and rediscover joy. Set in a contemporary North-American forest, the story models empathy, emotional literacy, and the supportive power of friendship for very young readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bear
Owl
Badger
Hare
Mouse
Discussion points
How can you tell Bear feels sad on the first page?
What ideas did Bear’s friends try to cheer him up?
When have you felt sad, and what helped you feel better?
How does sharing feelings change the way Bear feels?
Which forest friend would you call if you felt lonely?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause and let your child predict what each friend will do.
Mime Bear’s expressions to practice recognizing emotions.
Use real examples: ‘Remember when you were sad yesterday?’
Key lessons
Example Lesson: It’s okay to feel sad.
Explanation: Bear acknowledges sadness without shame.
Real-World Application: Children learn to accept their emotions without criticism.
Example Lesson: Talking helps feelings feel lighter.
Explanation: Bear feels better after sharing with friends.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to tell caregivers when upset.
Example Lesson: Friends can offer comfort.
Explanation: The animals’ kindness lifts Bear’s mood.
Real-World Application: Children see concrete ways to help peers.
Example Lesson: Gratitude strengthens friendships.
Explanation: Bear thanks each friend in the end.
Real-World Application: Saying thank-you nurtures positive relationships.