Promotional Information

"Let's scare bear!" says the tiny mouse. But the pint-size bully's plan backfires in this takeoff of a Japanese tale.

About the Author

Yuko Katakawa is a Japanese-born illustrator who studied art at an early age then later focused on Japanese Classic Literature in college. After she moved to the U.S., her love for art and words led her to picture book illustration. Yuko likes to create her artwork rapidly and instinctively using digital tools. Yuko lives in New York City. Let's Scare Bear is her debut picture book.

Reviews

"A fun twist on a tale from Japanese oral storytelling tradition, great for reading aloud."—Kirkus Reviews

"Katakawa makes great use of perspective and movement, encouraging page turns and effectively drawing the eye. . . . the arresting visuals and nicely cadenced text make this an excellent candidate for storytimes." —School Library Journal

"Based on a story called 'Manju Kowai' or 'Scared of Buns,' from the Japanese oral storytelling tradition of rakugo, Katakawa’s picture-book version is entertainingly presented. The forest-set mixed-media illustrations reward close inspection with clever details (e.g., the snake’s teacup is perched on her head—and she wears glasses). Bear is large but deft in his movements; readers will likely appreciate his cunning in earning a tasty treat but will also see the potential for friendship, as the smiling animals all appear to be having fun."—The Horn Book

"This lighthearted tale is a twist on a classic story from the Japanese oral tradition of rakugo, making for a delightful read-aloud. Mixed-media illustrations add energy to the excitement, and the delectable subject may have children demanding a manju cake before the end."—Booklist

"readers should be tickled by Bear’s willingness to play the fool for the sake of a yummy treat."—Publishers Weekly