The Easter Bear

PreS-Gr 2–Easter has found a new Bear! In this unique picture book, Finn does not wish to be a beekeeper or fisherman when he grows up. Finn wants to be the Easter Bunny. This brings laughs of disbelief from schoolmates and family alike, but Finn’s mother believes in him and his dream. “There’s no rule that says The Easter Bunny has to be a bunny,” she tells his laughing father. Though it is mentioned, readers do not see Finn cry. Instead, he is shown facing the challenge of becoming the Easter Bunny head-on, spending his time practicing jelly bean–making, basket weaving, and painting exquisite Easter eggs for the contest in the upcoming spring. Maris’s sweet illustrations capture Finn’s heart and dedication in spreads that show such enjoyable detail. A dab of childlike whimsy with a delicate swish of an impossible wish creates an engaging tale that will leave young readers rooting for the bespectacled hero.