Who is WAR BEAR?
WAR BEAR is the 'bravest bear'. He doesn't fight super villains, but however hard things get, he is always there for his friends and for anybody who needs his help. And right now, they really need his help. Their houses have 'fallen down' and their owners have had to find a safe new home to start again. In the rush of moving, 5 teddies have been left behind. War Bear, Boo the mouse, Monkey Stew, Dolly the rag doll and Tiger the... well... tiger. Together, they face problems and dangers, but never stop helping each other find their way to FREEDOM.
Boo
Dolly
Tiger
Stew
Sweet
Nervous
The heart of the gang
Sensible
Serious
Clever
Meet the gang!
Naughty but fun
Hard working
Kind
Silly and smiley
Chatty
Bouncy!!
Having initially studied for an Animation degree in Wrexham, North Wales in 2003, I have since taught Art and DT for 20 years while maintaining my own practice as an illustrator. This is the second book that I have published as an illustrator and the first as author and illustrator. Previously, I have performed as a poet on stages around Yorkshire and the UK with the likes of Matt Abbott, Buddy Wakefield and Toria Garbutt and have worked on illustrative commissions for poets such as Louise Fazakerley, David Hanson and Gemma Baker.
Thanks,
Matt
The inspiration for War Bear came in 2016 as Britain was in the process of leaving the EU and the effects of the Syrian refugee crisis was an international concern.
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I wanted to create a story that spoke of the hardships of being a refugee in a way that children could understand and relate to. A story that might reach past the political noise and help people think about people again.
I hope for a future where those fleeing countries due to conflict, hunger, poverty or political reasons face a brighter and more welcoming future.
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Thus, War Bear was born.
For every copy sold, a donation of £1 will be made to War Child.
