Bear Is Never Alone

Kirkus Reviews “The real stars of the show are Verstegen’s stunning mixed-media illustrations. Almost wholly black and white, they’re shot through on occasion by a vibrant bolt of red, providing just the right measures of surreal extremes and quiet contemplation… . [Bear Is Never Alone] will find a happy home with solitude seekers.”

Publishers Weekly “Veerkamp’s English-language debut conveys Bear’s overwhelming, urgent need for quiet, and his need to set fierce boundaries to get it. Introverts will recognize themselves in Bear’s experiences and warm to his solution: ‘Let’s be alone together.’”

Booklist “Kids who feel put on the spot or overwhelmed are sure to find common ground with Bear, and they’ll appreciate the relief Bear feels when he finally finds a peaceful moment and an understanding friend.”

The New York Times “Across more than a dozen pages, [Verstegen] builds chaos via masterfully composed, rapidly paced spreads that depict the animals’ pursuit of Bear. This makes the story’s final act all the more satisfying, as we wind down to witness a friend’s reverent recognition that peace and quiet is sometimes the answer.”

Marc Veerkamp is a Dutch scriptwriter, journalist, and children’s author. He was a member of the writing team for Sesamstraat, the Dutch adaptation of Sesame Street, for almost two decades, and he has written scripts for multiple plays and animated films. Bear Is Never Alone is Marc’s English-language debut.

Jeska Verstegen is the author of I’ll Keep You Close (Levine Querido) and the illustrator of over 100 books. Bear Is Never Alone (Eerdmans) was named a New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Book and a Bank Street College Best Children’s Book. She lives in Amsterdam.

Laura Watkinson translates books for children and adults from Dutch, German, and Italian. Her translations have received numerous honors, including three Mildred L. Batchelder Awards and the Vondel Translation Prize. She is the founder of the Dutch chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SBCWI). Laura lives in Amsterdam.