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Norton and the Bear

Gabriel Evans author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Berbay Publishing

Published:16th Jun '22

Should be back in stock very soon

Norton and the Bear cover

Presented for reviews at major review journals including Kirkus, Booklist, PW, SLJ, and Horn Book. Included in conference marketing for teachers and librarians. Educator/caregiver guide.

Is imitation the sincerest form of flattery? Or is it just annoying? 


Norton just wants to be unique. The bear wants to be just like him. This is definitely going to be a problem. 


This hilarious read-aloud explores every child's least favorite form of admiration: copying.  It also helps readers deal with the sensitive topics of conformity, individuality, and belonging in an accessible, kid-friendly way. Ultimately, setting boundaries should be empowering for kids, just like it is for Norton.  


"With a message sure to resonate with both trend setters and follower, this story will have wide appeal, especially for those with time to savor the artwork."

Booklist, starred review


Heartwarming and humorous, as well as filled with rewarding discussion opportunities, this is a valuable addition to all collections."

School Library Journal


Shortlisted for the Children's Book of Australia Picture Book of the Year!

"The humour will grab children.... This is a simple, meaningful and visually stunning book that reminds us all that what we look like on the outside doesn’t matter nearly so much as what we are like on the inside." ReadPlus, highly recommended



Shortlisted for the Children's Book Council of Australia Picture Book of the Year 


From the recipient of the inaugural Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Picture Book Illustrator Award in the  "Established Illustrator" category 


"This is an endearing story about the contradictory need to be different, yet to belong...Gabriel Evans has taken this theme and created two lovable relatable characters who struggle with the push pull of this dichotomy until they realise they are inherently unique on the inside." CBCA Reading Time

"The humour will grab children as they will see their own overreactions within Norton’s despair at Bear and his copying. This is a simple, meaningful and visually stunning book that reminds us all that what we look like on the outside doesn’t matter nearly so much as what we are like on the inside." ReadPlus, highly recommended

ISBN: 9781922610447

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

32 pages