astonishing use of imagination to appeal to children who like to make things - my nephew was entranced ( )

The illustrations were amusing but the story was rather forced. Trying too hard to be environmentalists. The subterranean homes of all the forest dwellers including the human were clever. I also liked the suspect lineup of the different species of bears. I think more humorous story development would have improved this story, ( )

This children's book, which can be considered an ecological fable, tells the story of a bear who is chopping down the trees in the forest. The other animals do not know who is wiping out the trees, but they know that they are angry about their home being taken away. They hold an investigation into the mystery of the disappearing trees, and eventually find out that the plot is not as sinister as they thought.

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This is such a cute little story about tree conservation and recycling that children can really get into. Talking animals is a silly staple in children's literature, and can really ignite interest in even the youngest readers. As the animals of the forest are looking for clues to solve the mystery of the disappearing trees, there are clues hidden throughout the illustrations that can help the students solve the mystery before the other animals do.

As conservation and recycling are a main focus in this book, the theme of forgiveness is also present. The animals of the forest are visibly upset about the disappearance of their trees. They conduct an investigation and when they discover who is the culprit, they do not punish the bear. Instead, they realize that the bear did not mean any harm, and they do not punish him. In the end, the other animals help the bear out, when they could have been angry and spiteful toward the bear. This can be a good lesson for young children as they can see that even though someone may make them upset, that may not always be the intention. Sometimes, people make mistakes and do not realize it.

Overall, I think this is a cute story to talk about paper, recycling, tree conservation, and most importantly, forgiveness.

The Great Paper Caper
Author: Oliver Jeffers
Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers
Copyright 2008
Scholastic Inc.

This picture book is suitable for grades 1-2.
Genre: Animals - Fiction ( )

Truly, the best stories have talking animals! This book goes through the investigation of the lost trees in the forest, as all the forest animals search for the culprit. Who doesn't love a good talking animal book? ( )