The Great Bear (The Guardian Best Children's of 2025)

A hopeful story about the power of nature, from the winner of the Batsford Prize for Illustration People's Choice Award 2022.

Since the dawn of time, the Great Bear has patrolled the oceans, protecting the Earth and her animals and overseeing the delicate balance of life. But now, one creature is changing everything. And the Great Bear is unhappy.

Debut author illustrator Annie Booker has created a breathtaking work of art with the feel of a timeless myth. Annie's hand-painted illustrations communicate the fragility and strength of the natural world, and call to mind the art and stories of Levi Pinfold and Coralie Bickford-Smith.

The Great Bear transports the reader to a world of snowy mountains, towering waves and deep, cold water. It is an exquisite tribute to the precious beauty of our world, and carries an invigorating message of hope.

This glorious, large hardback book includes at the end a spread of inspiring information about humanity's ongoing efforts to restore the nature of the Arctic, protect animals from extinction and regenerate the oceans.

The perfect gift for fans of illustration and nature lovers alike.