If You Were a Panda Bear
1 Hardcover/1 CD (see all formats)

"Despite the title, this rhyming overview covers not just pandas but seven other bear varieties as well: sloth, polar, American black, moon, sun, grizzled, and spectacled-plus, of course, those little stuffed childhood companions . . . teddies. Against a carefully varied musical background, which also incorporates a sprinkling of sound effects, Stechschulte narrates at a measured pace, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the illustrations. At the same time, he conscientiously pays attention to the words emphasized by the text's exaggerated typography, drawing out such phrases as "looooooooong tongue" to include every single o. Appropriately, he picks up the pace for the endnotes, called "Bear Fun Facts," which young listeners may find even more fascinating than the main text. For example, who knew that the polar bear's "white" hair is actually "made up of clear, hollow tubes that reflect light." A perfect choice to pique the interest of budding naturalists or for families to pop in the player as they head for the zoo."

"Gentle music and the sounds of bear habitats provide the background for this catalogue of bears and their characteristics. Panda and polar bears are familiar favorites, but more unusual bears such as spectacle and moon bears are also introduced. And what bear book for youngsters would be complete without a teddy bear? Tom Stechschulte's leisurely yet purposeful narration enables young listeners to catch the subtle rhymes that provide details on each creature. Stechschulte's voice perks up as he (and listeners) marvel at the "Bear Fun Facts" that complete the production."

"Nine types of bears (eight real, one teddy) are introduced to the very young with soft and sweet double-page spread illustrations. Information about bears-that pandas eat bamboo, black bears love to climb trees, and grizzly bears can be up to 10 feet tall-is complemented by silly phrases added to create whimsical rhymes. Two pages of "Bear Fun Facts" follow the storybook text. Cute bear noises, soft music, and related sound effects enhance Tom Stechschulte's narration. His pacing allows more than ample time for listeners to examine Wendell Minor's appealing art. Stechschulte reads the two pages of bear fun facts with pleasant voice variations and at an appropriately faster pace than the story. Page turn signals are optional. VERDICT This read-along set will be enjoyed by young animal lovers."