A Surprise in the Wood: A Touching Story of Love and the True Meaning of Family

PreS-Gr 3–Originally published in Italian, this book features a cozy story about forming a family. A bear couple waits for their cub to appear. When he does, Fin is a bit, well, fishier than expected. The woodland creatures initially seem skeptical, but the bears fully embrace the child they have. There’s not a moment’s hesitation as they accept their child’s differences and work to bridge experience gaps. Initially inspired by friends whose adopted son was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, the tale is infused with a dreamy, ethereal tone. The narrative perfectly matches the homey illustrations. Scuderi’s watercolor animals are rudimentary but appealing, with textured paper peeping through colored layers for an even more welcoming rustic feel. It adds to the earthy naturalness of the story. Why wouldn’t the bears utterly fall for their water-dwelling kiddo? And why wouldn’t their friends do the same? Any tension melts away under the warmth of their love.