Bobby the Bear and the Great Race by Ryan O’Connor (Book Review)

It’s human nature to want to win. We strive to be the best and bask in the euphoric high of being crowned champion. While many people train or follow the rules, there are those whose need to prevail victorious can lead them to cheat. The third book in the Bobby the Bear series, Bobby the Bear and the Great Race, focuses on one animal who veered off the path and took a shortcut to victory and how their friends reacted when they discovered the truth. The picture book explores sportsmanship, integrity, and doing what’s right. Three qualities that shape how we handle ourselves in various situations.

Bobby the Bear and his friends are enjoying a sunny day in the forest when the topic comes up about who their group’s fastest animal is. Not every animal claimed to be the fastest, but only Tanya the Tiger was laughed at for proclaiming she was the quickest. The snickering could affect someone’s mood or actions; in Tanya’s case, the laughter caused them to make a wrong decision in the race. The smiling tiger took a shortcut to ensure they crossed the finish line first, needing to win so badly after the animals laughed at her.

Ready. Set. Go. Bobby the Bear and the Great Race is a remarkable story for blossoming independent readers. Through easy-to-read text, young kids learn that everyone would like to win, but no one can win every time. The lovely book informs kids that cheating is wrong and can affect friendships; the deceitful act might end a friendship permanently. Though losing can be hard, it can and will happen to us all. It’s important to be a good sport and try again next time.

Tanya the Tiger’s initial actions were wrong, but, in the end, she made the right decision and apologized for cheating. Tanya’s tale teaches kids to play fair, be a good sport, and try their best. It also shows the effects laughing at someone can have. Remember, be kind and supportive of one another!

I strongly recommend adding Bobby the Bear and the Great Race to your library. It teaches invaluable lessons for kids three and up. It’s also a visual delight for babies and toddlers, making it a must-have for any young reader’s collection.