A Polar Bear in the Snow

Ages 3 to 7, Grades P to 2

“The captivating cut-paper–and-ink illustrations . . . perfectly suit the prose’s quiet grandeur. . . . Charming, scenic, and a winning must for the youngest polar bear lovers.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Follow a magnificent polar bear through a fantastic world of snow and shockingly blue sea. Over the ice, through the water, past Arctic animals and even a human . . . where is he going? What does he want? Acclaimed author Mac Barnett’s narration deftly balances suspense and emotion, as well as poignant, subtle themes, compelling us to follow the bear with each page turn. Artist Shawn Harris’s striking torn-paper illustrations layer white-on-white hues with bolts of blue and an interplay of shadow and light for a gorgeous view of a stark yet beautiful landscape. Simple and thought-provoking, illuminating and intriguing, this engaging picture book will have readers pondering the answer to its final question long after the polar bear has continued on his way.

About the Author

Mac Barnett is the author of several books for children, including Extra Yarn, illustrated by Jon Klassen, which won a Caldecott Honor and a Boston Globe–Horn Book Award; Sam and Dave Dig a Hole and The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse, both also illustrated by Jon Klassen; and President Taft Is Stuck in the Bath, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen. Mac Barnett lives in California.

Shawn Harris is an artist and musician who began his career by doing record and poster art for his band, the Matches, in 2003. Since then he has created art for musicians such as Adele, Snoop Dogg, and 311. His first picture book, Her Right Foot, was written by Dave Eggers. Have You Ever Seen a Flower?, a picture book written and illustrated by Shawn Harris, was named a Caldecott Honor Book in 2022. Shawn Harris lives in Morongo Valley, California.