FICTION

Brave Dave

by Giles Andreae (text) & illus. by Guy Parker-Rees
Orchard. Sept. 2022. 32p. Tr $18.99 ISBN 9781338850109.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 2–From the duo that produced Giraffes Can’t Dance comes the rhyming story of Dave, a bear who needs to be true to himself. While his brother is brave and strong and all the things that a bear is allegedly supposed to be, Dave doesn’t fit in that model. He longs to be true to his love of color, self-expression, and clothes. Reminiscent of Mo Willems’s Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed, the young hero of the story decides to boldly display who he is and what he loves, finding himself accepted by his community. Soon all the animals are enjoying fashions by Dave! More importantly, Dave and his brother feel good about themselves and about each other.
VERDICT Brilliantly hued illustrations capture a forest tale of self-acceptance and bravery. This title would be useful for launching a discussion about going beyond mere acceptance and tolerance to true celebration and appreciation of the diversity in our world.
Reviewed by John Scott , Aug 12, 2022

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Noisy Christmas: My First Touch and Feel Sound Book
by Cox, Hettie
BOOKS

Five Sparkling Snowmen: A Rhyming Count Down Christmas Board Book
by Edwards, Nicola
BOOKS

A Magical Christmas: A Padded Christmas Story Book
by Freedman, Claire
BOOKS

Night Night, Sleepy Elves: A Lift-the-Flap Bedtime Christmas Book
by Wood, Selina
BOOKS

Love Is My Favorite Color
by Laden, Nina
BOOKS

Harriet’s Reflections
by Kadi, Marion
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?