Though expressed by a mother polar bear in the snowy Arctic, this is a very warm message of love to a small child. In quiet, lilting verse the bear mother assures her little one that she will always be there, no matter what the circumstances-sharing in her tot's happiness, consoling her in sad and scary times, finding her when she's lost, and always encouraging her hopes and dreams. The best part, of course, is mom's heartfelt promise that she will love her child forever. The simple digital illustrations are sweet and comforting, usually rendered in stark white and black against muted background hues; most feature close-ups of mother and child embracing or enjoying activities in each other's company. Some scenes are particularly striking-one spread depicts a bold, blue night sky with a bright full moon casting the duo's reflections on still water; another spread shows the bears marveling at the vivid colors of the aurora borealis-but the general quietness of the artwork reflects the gentleness of a mother's calm, heartfelt assurances. The message is universal, and the words can't be said enough. The bears are certainly stand-ins for any adoring mother-child pair. (Final, foil-embellished art not seen.) * Kirkus *
