Bear Stays Up by Karma Wilson (Bear Stays Up - Karma Wilson)

Member Name: cookie334

Product:	Bear Stays Up - Karma Wilson
Date:	21/11/08 (56 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Grips children, well written, good story, well illustrated

Disadvantages: None

Bear Stays Up is a childrens story. It is written by Karma Wilson and illustrated by Jane Chapman. The two make a fantastc team throughout the book, with the illustrations a very true reflection of what is going on in the story. Although Karma Wilson is not what I would describe as a particularly famous author, you should not be put off by this, as the story is one that grips the child from the beginning right the way through to the end.

The layout of the book and the way it is written in rhyme, reminds me very much of a Jacqueline Wilson story, and my children have found this book to be as enjoyable as The Gruffalo or Room on the Broom.

The story begins one Christmas Eve. Bear is, as is usual for a bear, hibernating through the winter months, when he is awoken by his animal friends who are determined not to let him sleep through Christmas this year.

Bears friends keep him busy all day. There's so much to organise. They have to find a Christmas tree and decorate it and bake a fresh fruit cake. They have to hang their stockings and sing some carols. Eventually Bears friends all fall asleep and he is the only one left awake. He bakes some treats and wraps some presents, but will he be able to stay awake and share Christmas morning with his friends?

Children will love this story as it's full of anticipation. It keeps them listening the whole way through, as they desperately want to know if Bear will make it. A few surprises along the way add to the excitement and makes the story an all round winner.

Bear Stays Up is obviously a perfect story for this time of year and I'm sure both adults and children alike will remember being in Bears shoes at some point - trying to stay awake on Christmas Eve night.

There is some repitition in the book, but not too much and children can enjoy joining in as "Bear stays up".

The book I have is a paperback copy and has the price of £4.99 on the back, however, I'm sure it would be cheaper on the likes of Amazon or Ebay. Although I'd say even at the full price, Bear Stays Up is worth adding to any childs book collection. It is a fantastic story which children will enjoy for many years.

Highly recommended!

Summary: A great addition for a childs book collection