Awards

The Pennsylvania Center for the Book celebrates outstanding books, authors, and literary achievement through four signature awards: The Baker’s Dozen: Thirteen Best Books for Family Literacy, The Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award, The Lynd Ward Graphic Novel Prize, and Pennsylvania Great Reads from Great Places. Together, these programs recognize excellence in family literacy, children’s poetry, graphic novels, and books that reflect Pennsylvania’s rich literary heritage. By honoring exceptional literary works and connecting readers with engaging and meaningful stories, the Pennsylvania Center for the Book promotes lifelong reading, literacy, and a love of literature across the Commonwealth and beyond.

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Old Bear

By Kevin Henkes
Published by Greenwillow Books, 2008
Young Readers

Old Bear is hibernating and dreams that he is young again. In his lushly colored dreams, Old Bear sleeps in a comfy purple crocus (spring), among clouds that rain blueberries (summer) and leaves on the finest autumn day.  Author/illustrator Kevin Henkes has created a gentle dreamscape of a story which teaches young readers about the seasons while encouraging them to apply imagination to the everyday outdoors.

Old Bear

Pennsylvania Center for the Book Awards

Baker's Dozen 2009 Winner

Book Activities & Discussion Ideas

Tips for Using with Children

Help children imagine themselves during the four seasons. Show a picture of each season from the book or make picture word cards for each season. Then ask the children to curl up and pretend to sleep, dreaming of what they’re doing during that season. Afterwards, invite them to share their dreams.

Tips for Using with Families

Talk about the seasons with your child. What is your child’s favorite season? Encourage your children to draw pictures of themselves enjoying their favorite season.