Ages 8+1-min guideAnimalsFriendshipHistory
Pocket Bear
by Katherine Applegate
Good fitA good fit for most kids 8 and up. A warm, funny toy story told by a sassy cat. It also touches on war, with loved ones lost in the past.
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What it’s about
Zephyrina, a proud cat who steals, brings home lost and tossed-out toys. Dasha and her mom, refugees from Ukraine, clean them up for new kids. At midnight the toys come alive. Their leader is Pocket, a tiny World War I bear. Then Zephyrina finds a dirty old bear who may be worth a fortune.
The ending
What might come up
Death and lossSomeDasha’s father was killed in the war in Ukraine. Pocket’s World War I soldier never came home.
ViolenceA littleDasha was hurt by a bomb and uses crutches. The war is remembered, not shown up close.
Unkind behaviorA littlePicky Vicky lies to Dasha and steals Berwon. She also manipulates a boy, who has to make amends.
Potty humorSomeLots of poop and fart jokes. One big scene involves dog and baby poop.
LanguageA littleJust a few uses of 'heck.'
RomanceNone
Why kids like it
A sassy cat narrator, toys that play at midnight, and a daring bear rescue.
Free printable quiz
- 1Who tells the story?
- 2What was Pocket made for in World War I?
- 3Where did Zephyrina find Berwon?
- 4Who tries to get Berwon because he is worth a lot of money?
