The Bear in My Bed has some fun illustrations in their childlike manner. They are abstract with whimsical touches. The bears antics are also very “childlike” in the way they are how a child could act during their bedtime routine. The takeaway is either yes, the bear is there or (more likely) the child is telling you about himself and his feelings, actions and overall state of play/mind.
Joyce Wan has created a delightful bedtime story that soon your child could read with you as well as begin read to. It is simple and obvious, but this does not take away from the overall enjoyment of the tale.
I would like to see this book in one of two formats. Either in a board book (slightly larger than usual) or in a mini size, yet hardcover. When it comes in paper, it will perhaps be more popular than it might be in hardcover. The ages this book is aimed for would need a sturdier book when looking at it, but the starting to read, slightly more advanced reader will need the ease of the paperback format.
Wan has a signature style to her drawing. Her art work is innocent and sweet. The toddler can enjoy the colors and text. While the colors are bright, they are not overpowering. They have a subtle mutability while still popping. Her art gives the right amount of detail (pajama time shows the boy getting his on properly, while the bear has a more creative way of dressing for bed) and her text tells the story perfectly.
