A picture book with delicate illustrations that explains the path of grief ending with the
uplifting new beginning of a budding friendship based on understanding. A Kirkus Reviews Best
Picture Book of 2023 When the little bird dies his friend the bear is inconsolable. Full of
grief he locks himself in his house and ventures out again only when the smell of young spring
grass blows through his window. He always carries a small box which he opens for no one. He
meets a wildcat who understands his need to carry the box. As the cat plays on her violin the
bear remembers all the beauty he experienced with the little bird. Now he can bury his friend
keeping him alive in his memories and feelings. Explaining the topic of grief and loss in a way
that speaks to any age and with a quiet understanding of what it is like to lose someone you
love The Bear and the Wildcat shows a way through paralyzing grief and simultaneously tells
the story of a hopeful new friendship. Tender and sensitive this is an excellent tool for
helping to explain the process of grief loss and bereavement with children or anyone who needs
it Loved by adults and children also suitable for schools hospices grief centers and
counselors Translated from the Japanese edition by Cathy Hirano. Komako Sakai lives in Japan
and studied art in Tokyo. She is one of the most popular children's illustrators in Japan and
winner of the Japanese Picture Book Prize and her books are published throughout the world.
Kazumi Yumoto was born in Tokyo Japan. Her books mostly novels for older children have won
numerous international awards. Praise for The Bear and the Wildcat: [A] tender story . . .
[and] forward-looking book for children who have loved and lost.--Wall Street Journal [A]
touchstone for talking about loss.--starred Publishers Weekly Quietly contemplative mingling
hope and healing this is a book that will offer comfort to many.--starred Kirkus Reviews In
this touching story about grief Bear mourns the death of his friend Bird working his way from
being paralyzed by sadness to reengaging with the world.--Booklist This powerful story deals
with one of life's most complicated and painful aspects with delicacy and honesty. Intricately
layered pencil illustration accompanies the tale to create a story that is very moving but also
filled with hope.--BookTrust UK If grieving people are allowed to grieve then they will find
their way back to the joy of life - that's the message of this delicate Japanese book.--Die
Zeit
