Mistaken for a Bear

Based on a true story, Mistaken for a Bear is a book about mistaken identities set in Victorian London. The illustrations are by Jamie Beards.

Format: Hardback
Length: 32 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2021
Publisher: Pop Up Projects CIC

Written by Philip Ardagh, Mistaken for a Bear is a captivating tale of mistaken identities, brought to life with stunning illustrations by debut illustrator Jamie Beards. Depicting a gritty Victorian London, Beards' atmospheric artwork adds depth and realism to the story, making it an engaging read for young readers aged 9 and up.

In the heart of Victorian London, a young boy named Tom is mistaken for a bear by a group of children. Tom, who is dressed in a brown coat and hat, is playing in a park when the children spot him and run in fear. The adults in the park also mistake Tom for a bear and try to chase him away.

Tom is initially scared and confused but soon realizes that he is not a bear. He tries to explain to the children and adults that he is just a boy, but they are not convinced. As Tom runs away, he encounters a kind-hearted woman named Mrs. Jenkins.

Mrs. Jenkins is a retired teacher who has a soft spot for children. She sees Tom running away and decides to help him. She approaches Tom and asks him why he is running away. Tom explains that he is mistaken for a bear and is scared.

Mrs. Jenkins is determined to help Tom. She takes him to her house and gives him a warm meal. She also gives him a new coat and hat to wear, so that he will not be mistaken for a bear again.

As Tom spends more time with Mrs. Jenkins, he begins to feel more comfortable and safe. He learns that Mrs. Jenkins is a kind and caring woman who loves children. He also learns that she has a secret garden in her backyard, where she grows beautiful flowers and plants.

Tom spends many days in the garden with Mrs. Jenkins, helping her tend to the plants and flowers. He also learns about the different types of plants and flowers that grow in the garden. He discovers that some plants can heal, while others can help to protect against evil spirits.

One day, while Tom is in the garden, he sees a group of children playing in the park. They are chasing each other and playing games. Tom remembers how he was mistaken for a bear and decides to help the children.

Tom approaches the children and tells them that he is not a bear. He explains that he was just mistaken for a bear and is now safe. The children are surprised and happy to hear that Tom is not a bear.

Tom spends more time with the children, playing games and teaching them about the garden. He also tells them about the different types of plants and flowers that grow in the garden. The children are fascinated by the garden and love spending time with Tom.

As time goes by, Tom becomes more and more comfortable with his identity. He no longer feels like he is mistaken for a bear. He is proud of his friendship with the children and the garden that he has helped to create.

One day, Mrs. Jenkins receives a letter from a local newspaper. The newspaper is writing about the beautiful garden that Mrs. Jenkins has created in her backyard. The article mentions that the garden is a haven for children and that it has helped to improve their mental health and well-being.

Mrs. Jenkins is overjoyed by the article and is proud of the work that she has done. She knows that the garden has made a difference in the lives of many children and that it has helped to create a sense of community in the neighborhood.

In conclusion, Mistaken for a Bear is a captivating tale of mistaken identities, brought to life with stunning illustrations by debut illustrator Jamie Beards. Depicting a gritty Victorian London, Beards' atmospheric artwork adds depth and realism to the story, making it an engaging read for young readers aged 9 and up.

Through the character of Tom, the story explores the themes of identity, friendship, and community. Tom is initially scared and confused but eventually learns to embrace his true identity and become comfortable with himself. He also forms a strong friendship with the children in the park and helps to create a beautiful garden that benefits the community.

Mistaken for a Bear is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact that art can have on young readers. It is a story that will inspire and encourage children to embrace their true identities and to be kind and caring to others.

Weight: 180g
Dimension: 166 x 221 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838323561