Starred Review for Kirkus Reviews

In the fourth entry in the charming Goose and Bear series, the polar bear and gawky white goose are again joined by their irrepressible little friend, a fox with the personality of a bright 2-year-old. Each of the volumes in the series deals with some aspect of friendship, and this time the issue concerns gifts for friends. Making presents, wrapping them, wondering about the recipient, waiting to open the package--all are exciting concepts for the little fox, who narrates the tale. The clever story conveys a complete plot in only a few words and will appeal to both younger children who are just starting to listen to stories and to older ones who will appreciate the subtle humor. Fox thinks the scarf Bear is knitting must be for her, as well as the mittens Goose is making. She's so excited about the present exchange that she wraps herself up as a surprise package and pops out to delight her more-experienced friends. They give her a custom-made vest, which delights Fox so much she suggests they do their present exchange all over again. Exuberant pastel illustrations with loose, scratchy textures stand out against brilliant, royal-blue backgrounds with the text set in white. This one has "read it again" potential, and Fox has the makings of a star. (Picture book. 2-6)

ALA Booklist

Friends Goose and Bear are back for another small-time, large-format adventure in a situation to which little ones will be able to relate. As the duo quietly wraps presents, Fox pesters them, wanting to know if the presents are for him and pointing out that, if they are, they are inappropriate. Surmising that nothing is being prepared to surprise him, Fox decides to make his own spectacular, splendid surprise. As with previous books, Bloom has crafted a full story with a minimum of words, while the uncluttered, blue-toned illustrations effectively convey emotion through body language and facial expressions. A natural for storytimes and likely to spark lively discussions.

Horn Book

Barely hiding her disappointment that the gifts Bear and Goose are making aren't for her, Fox hides in a box to be her own surprise. When their real gift appears, genuinely surprised Fox relishes the gift-giving ritual. Readers can infer Fox's relatable feelings from the spare text and the illustrations, whose blue backdrops darken and lighten with Fox's mood.

Kirkus Reviews (Fri Oct 04 00:00:00 CDT 2024)

In the fourth entry in the charming Goose and Bear series, the polar bear and gawky white goose are again joined by their irrepressible little friend, a fox with the personality of a bright 2-year-old. Each of the volumes in the series deals with some aspect of friendship, and this time the issue concerns gifts for friends. Making presents, wrapping them, wondering about the recipient, waiting to open the package--all are exciting concepts for the little fox, who narrates the tale. The clever story conveys a complete plot in only a few words and will appeal to both younger children who are just starting to listen to stories and to older ones who will appreciate the subtle humor. Fox thinks the scarf Bear is knitting must be for her, as well as the mittens Goose is making. She's so excited about the present exchange that she wraps herself up as a surprise package and pops out to delight her more-experienced friends. They give her a custom-made vest, which delights Fox so much she suggests they do their present exchange all over again. Exuberant pastel illustrations with loose, scratchy textures stand out against brilliant, royal-blue backgrounds with the text set in white. This one has "read it again" potential, and Fox has the makings of a star. (Picture book. 2-6)

School Library Journal (Sat Sep 01 00:00:00 CDT 2012)

PreS-Gr 1 Goose and Bear return in this wintry tale of friendship. As the pair prepares handmade gifts, a spunky fox kit asks dozens of questions, most importantly, "Is it for me?&30; I love surprises!" When the answer is negative each time, cheerful Fox creates a gift by wrapping itself in hearts cut from paper. "Ta da! It's me. For you!" Goose and Bear reciprocate with a bright green, buttoned vest. Short sentences and pastel spreads create what's sure to become storytime favorite. The rich indigo skies brilliantly balance the white textures of Bear's fur and Goose's feathers, as well as Fox's russet coat. The kit's bouncy poses and confetti-colored gifts and wrappings add to this festive read. Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA