A Boy and A Bear in a Boat

Occasionally, a book's title says it all. And this is one of those occasions. Indeed, the entirety of this children's chapter book, suited well for ages 7-12, follows the travails of, yes, a boy and a bear in a boat.

Written by Dave Shelton, the tale begins with the boy procuring the services of a bear and his rowboat in an attempt to reach the "other side." The boy is initially equipped with a suitcase as well as a lack of patience and imagination. The bear on the other hand, has an abundance of patience, a trifle less imagination, and additionally, a ukulele and a comic book. 

Despite assurances that this trip to the other side will only take a short while, "unforeseeable anomalies"occur such as encounters with "turbulent stormy seas! a terrifying sea monster! and the rank remains of The Very Last Sandwich." 

Truth be told, these anomalies make up insignificant portions of the plot. But it is not the plot that makes this book worth reading. Instead, rather than action, it is the book's call to the reader's imagination that makes it a delight.

The slightly scary portrayal of being lost at sea is perfectly juxtaposed with the surreal, whimsical, and ridiculous. Add to the stories charms some fantastic yet understated illustrations and the end result is a well written, highly enjoyable touch of drama paired with a generous helping of humor, growth, and friendship.