First published in 1972 with illustrations by the author, Bear’s Picture (April 2008; Houghton Mifflin) by Daniel Pinkwater tells the tale of a bear with a creative streak and a mind of his own.

Bear is happily painting a picture when two fine, proper gentlemen approach and begin critiquing his work. But Bear knows that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the only person that his picture needs to impress is himself.

This spring this classic tale is brought to new life by the award-winning illustrator D. B. Johnson, who imbues the pages with vibrant colors that perfectly highlight the book’s simple but bold message. Daniel Pinkwater and D. B. Johnson turn art (and art critics) upside down in this witty, winning tale about independent thought, self-expression, and learning how to ignore the naysayers.

Daniel Pinkwater is the author of about a hundred books, and he feels that bears, like all artists, should be encouraged rather than criticized. Visit his website at www.pinkwater.com.

D. B. Johnson is the author and illustrator of many award-winning picture books, and is always on the lookout for bears—especially ones that paint. Visit his website at www.henryhikes.com.

Listen to a special message from Daniel Pinkwater.

* “What do you get when you pair up two creators of children’s books who are bear fanciers? Answer: a quirky, sardonic and highly entertaining view of what makes art.” —Booklist, starred review

* “Imaginative illustrations from a notable ursine stylist, Johnson (Henry Hikes to Fitchburg), lend pizzazz to this reillustrated 1972 bear-centric tale from Pinkwater, author of the Larry polar bear series.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

* "Bear makes a grand champion for all young artists...it wouldn't hurt for certain grown-ups to hear this message."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Children whose creative efforts have been thwarted will… empathize with this paw-on-hip, nose-in-the-air bear who exudes confidence."—School Library Journal