Elbert, the Curious Clock Tower Bear

K-Gr 2–Elbert is one of five mechanical bears who live in a clock tower, and parade around the clock, at the stroke of every hour. Yet, Elbert has many questions beyond his duties. The other bears become irritated with Elbert’s wonder and give him an ultimatum: get rid of his curiosity in 24 hours or do not return to the clock tower. As Elbert journeys through a town and the forest to rid himself of his questions, he discovers he only has more wonder and awe for possibility. Beautifully written and illustrated, this book is a delight with a powerful message about remaining curious. Elbert’s countdown appears on alternating pages, with the clock tower’s face displaying the time, which could be useful in helping young readers learning to tell time. The text is full of lush vocabulary and deep thinking, pondering where curiosity lives in the body. The illustrations mimic the movement of Elbert’s journey and his thought process, whether appearing as panels demonstrating the progression of time as he moves through the forest, or as full-page illustrations conveying Elbert’s pausing to think as he takes in the view on a mountain top.