Grizzly bears are one of North America’s most iconic wildlife species. They once roamed across half the continent, but today they are gone from much of their former range. Delve into the lives of these incredible bears and the vital role that they play in the ecosystem. Learn from the work that conservation scientists, Indigenous Peoples and kids are doing to live in harmony with grizzlies and to ensure they will be with us forever.
Grizzly Bears was written especially for 9- to 12-year-olds, but will be enjoyed by bear-lovers of all ages.
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REVIEWS and recognition:
Junior Library Guild: A Gold Standard Selection, chosen by the JLG editorial team, which reads thousands of children’s books each year, prior to publication, to choose the best, award-worthy books for school librarians.
National Science Teaching Association and Children’s Book Council: Selected as a 2024 Outstanding Science Trade Book for Students K–12.
The Nature Generation: Finalist for the 2024 Green Earth Book Award and a Recommended Reading selection in the Young Adult Nonfiction category.
School Library Journal: “An important book for helping kids see past the stereotypes of terrifying grizzly bears and join the call for conservation.” (starred review) Also named as one of the Best Elementary Nonfiction Books for 2023.
School Library Connection: “This phenomenal book is a must for anyone with even the slightest interest in bears. Even someone who isn’t particularly interested in learning more about grizzlies likely won’t be able to resist being drawn in. … Page for page this book is a treasure absolutely worth owning.”
Canadian Review of Materials: “A high level of expertise, up-to-date research, thorough topic treatment and appealing presentation. … The author guides readers through the presentation of information with an easy-to-read, storytelling writing style, taking time with explanations. … Highly Recommended.”
Puget Sound Council for the Review of Children’s and Young Adult Literature: “With brilliant color photography, carefully explained vocabulary and conversational style, Backhouse’s experience as a bear researcher is well matched to the challenge of grizzly-bear conservation. … this is a well written, gloriously illustrated and timely addition to all libraries.”
Bank Street Center for Children’s Literature: Named as one of The Best Children’s Books of the Year.
Young Readers’ Choice Awards Society of BC Red Cedar Award: Nominated for the 2024/25 Red Cedar Award. Young readers can register now. Voting will start in May 2025.
