Bear's Christmas Surprise Encourages Patience Instead of Peeking

Waiting for Christmas to come without peeking at the presents can be very difficult for a young child. It’s all too easy to stumble upon a stack of gifts in the closet and find the temptation to open them overwhelming. That’s the problem that Bear, who seems to be a little plush teddy bear along the lines of the original Winnie the Pooh, faces in Bear’s Christmas Surprise, written by Elizabeth Winthrop and illustrated by Patience Brewster.

The book is a sequel to Bear and Mrs. Duck, which I haven’t read, though I gather that it’s about Bear getting to know his babysitter, Mrs. Duck, who plays a central role in this book. The book’s only other character is Nora, the young girl who is like a mother to Bear. Well, there’s also Santa Claus, but his presence is only hinted at.

Brewster’s illustrations have a charming homey quality about them. I found myself very much reminded of Camilla Ashforth’s Willow at Christmas, except that in that book there are no humans to be seen. Willow is a totally self-sufficient bear, while Bear is just a youngster who toddles around in overalls and requires a babysitter. Interestingly, though there are no mentions of religious observances within the book itself, the back-cover illustration depicts Mrs. Duck and Bear decorating the Christmas tree with a Nativity set spread out before them.

While Bear is a cute little fellow, I am especially taken with Mrs. Duck, a large white duck with big waddling feet and a fuzzy Santa hat that she wears to be festive. She’s a good sport, asking Bear to suggest activities and cheerfully going along with whatever he proposes, whether it’s drawing a picture or playing hide and seek. She has a slightly daffy air about her that makes her even more endearing.

Winthrop’s prose is fairly simple and straightforward, but she tells a good story, especially at the climax when Bear, whom Nora has expressly forbidden from peeking, finds himself in an enclosed space with a pile of wrapped presents and can’t resist picking them up and shaking them. The feelings of guilt and regret are explored well, as is Nora’s willingness to forgive. I also like the fact that Bear has been attuned enough to his babysitter to know what she wants for Christmas and is considerate enough to suggest they get it for her.

For young readers of about three to seven years of age, Bear’s Christmas Surprise serves as a reminder of the value of patience and generosity.