#1 in Once/Now/Then/After Series
Where Is Bina Bear?
2022 by
on Goodreads (432)
What’s inside...
In Mike Curato's funny, poignant picture book Where Is Bina Bear? , a little rabbit throws a party―but can't find best friend Bina Bear anywhere!
Tiny is having a party, but Bina Bear is nowhere to be found. Is that Bina hiding under a lampshade? It looks like Bina . . . but it must be a lamp. Is that Bina beneath the fruit bowl? It could be . . . but it's probably just a table.
Searching for Bina, Tiny realizes something is wrong―and sets out to make it right. This is a humorous yet sincere picture book about friendship, understanding, and embracing our loved ones just as they are.
Godwin Books
Why read this book
- Engaging hide-and-seek adventure encourages observational skills.
- Bina Bear's journey teaches resilience and determination.
- Colorful illustrations captivate and stimulate visual perception.
- Supports language development through repetitive, easy-to-follow text.
The Big Picture
- Explores themes of friendship, problem-solving, cooperation.
- Promotes emotional intelligence and resilience.
- Encourages discussions on challenges and seeking help.
Diversity & Representation
- Promotes inclusivity through diverse characters and settings.
- Encourages acceptance of differences through Bina Bear’s adventures.
- Illustrates diversity in friendships, fostering social awareness.
- Supports understanding of various cultures alongside Bina Bear.
Book in series
#1
Age
2-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
developing
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think Bina Bear felt when she was hiding?
Why do you think Bina Bear decided to hide? What would you do if you were Bina?
How did the other characters react to Bina’s disappearance? How would you help if your friend was missing?
What does this story teach us about friendship and caring for others?
If you could speak to Bina Bear, what would you tell her?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by relating to Bina Bear’s emotions and actions.
Discuss the importance of empathy by asking how they would feel in Bina Bear's situation and how they can help friends in real life.
Highlight the problem-solving aspects of the story by asking your child what they would do differently if they were one of the characters.
Use dramatic expression when discussing different scenarios within the book to make the conversation more engaging and memorable.
Reinforce the story's morals by correlating them to real-life events and decisions your child might face.
What parents love
Perfect balance of entertainment and educational content.
Love the illustrations, so engaging for my kids!
Handled sensitive themes beautifully, kids felt connected.
The mystery keeps my child hooked till the end!
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout 'Where Is Bina Bear?', the story demonstrates how friends rally together to look for Bina Bear, showcasing the strength and support found in friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture their relationships with peers, understanding that friends are important for emotional support and collaboration.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: In the quest to find Bina Bear, the characters come across various challenges that they need to solve. This illustrates effective problem-solving strategies in a fun and engaging way.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to approach obstacles in their lives creatively, using thinking skills to overcome difficulties.
Example Lesson: Emotional expression
Explanation: Bina Bear hides because she is feeling overwhelmed, which is key to understanding the emotional undercurrents of the story.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of expressing their feelings and that it's okay to seek space when needed, promoting healthy emotional development.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story explores the reactions of Bina’s friends to her disappearance and their eventual understanding of her feelings.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to be empathetic to the feelings of others, enhancing their ability to be considerate and kind in social interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage and Adventure
Explanation: As the characters venture into the unknown in search of Bina Bear, they display bravery and a spirit of adventure.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to face new situations boldly and with curiosity, fostering a resilient and adventurous spirit.