Book Review: A Bad, Mad, Sad Day for Mama Bear By Mayra Calvani Illustrated by: K.C. Snider

This is a wonderful picture book for kids 3 to 7 about Mama Bear’s really bad, mad and sad day.

Little Bear tries to help his Mama bear to cope with her bad day. But she doesn’t notice him and all his gestures because she was too busy. However, when Little Bear gives his mommy a very special dolly, she finally notices him and she appreciates all the love that he tries to give her.

There are quite a few important themes in the story such as the importance of a family’s love at time of need and the necessity for parents to slow down so that they could notice their children’s love for them—especially when they may be having a bad day.  It only goes to show, when the going gets tough, people who are loved can conquer anything.

The story is hilarious and has serious overtones too. The illustrations are bold and colourful and they bring the message of the book to life. It is a book that young readers won’t be able to put down. It makes a wonderful bedtime story.  

What a GREAT story for kids!  Thank you Mayra for such a wonderful book!

Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults and has authored over a dozen books, some of which have won awards. Her stories, reviews, interviews and articles have appeared on numerous publications both in print and online. She lives in Belgium with her husband, two wonderful kids, and her two beloved pets.

Visit her at www.mayrassecretbookcase.com

KC Snider is an honors graduate from the School of Arts in Eugene, Oregon, where she majored in illustration and taught in Oregon colleges for 17 years. Her Western

Fine Art has won prestigious Western Art Awards, like the Snaffle Bit and Pioneer Awards.

In 2007, KC illustrated two children’s books: The Christmas Angel and The Magic Violin. Since then she has illustrated more than 40 books for Guardian Angel Publishing. Her illustrations have won numerous literary awards. KC lives in Redmond, Oregon with her husband. She is inspired by her grandchildren and the natural beauty of the Oregon Cascade Mountains and high desert.

Visit KC at www.kcsniderart.com

Rating: 5 Stars

Reviewed by:  Irene S. Roth