A Splendid Friend, Indeed - Softcover

4 stars: It is the 'splendid' illustrations that really make this book. The large white polar bear and the cheekily intrusive goose are full of life, and the heavenly blue background manages to reflect both the bear's grumpiness and goose's flighty self-assuredness. Goose's facial expressions make him loveable in spite of his bumptiousness. Parents will recognise and enjoy the desire to have time to oneself in spite of demanding little ones. (Books for Keeps)

Bloom conveys both characters clearly and with great humour. The illustrations are very welcoming, particularly the texture of Bear's fur. A lovely book to share with very young children. (Ibby Link)

Stunning illustrations capture the exasperation of Bear, whose solitary reading and writing are continually interrupted by persistent Goose. In the end, Bear is won over and to his own surprise, declares Goose a Splendid Friend, Indeed! A very funny story with a warm message about not judging others.