A storm is brewing, and choleric black bear Bruce wants to wait it out alone at home; Soggy Hollow's animals, who aren't great at reading signals, invite themselves over. As fans of the humorous Bruce books know, underneath the unibrow and blue-black fur is a softy--note the wordless panel showing his paw reaching up to save a storm-tossed bunny.

PreS-Gr 2 Bruce is back and grumpy as ever! When a big storm is forecast, Bruce just wants to hunker down in his wingback chair with a good book. However, his kids (four geese), housemates (three mice), and all of his animal neighbors have other ideas. As the house becomes a safe haven for the community, the animals enjoy one another's company with their usual chaotic enthusiasm. That is, until they see a little white bunny caught in the storm. Nibb the mouse is ready to help, but risks getting blown away. Bruce begrudgingly ventures out in the storm (to retrieve his favorite umbrella, of course). Just when you think that Bruce is going to save the day, there is a surprise twist. The expressions on the animal faces are priceless. The illustration details are clever and hilariousfrom Bruce's coffee cup labeled "Jo," to the impressive mustache on one of the mice, to the hard hat on a blueprint-wielding turtle. Children and adults will chuckle at the humor and Bruce's secretly softhearted peevishness. Although each book in the series can be read alone, it is delightful to see the returning (and always growing) cast of characters as each installment continues Bruce's transformation from a cantankerous old recluse to the most beloved member of the neighborhood. VERDICT Always a blast, Bruce and his grumbling are sure to please in this stormy adventure. Alyssa Annico, Youngstown State University, OH