Bunting, Philip. Dropbear. Philip Bunting, Illus. Charlesbridge, 09/2025. [32]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-62354-726-4. GRADES Preschool–Kindergarten. ADDITIONAL.
Up in the old gum tree is a gray-haired bear (a Koala) who, the tales say, terrorizes unsuspecting animals by suddenly dropping down on them. Readers will be happy to discover that reality does not match the hype, because, in the end, all Dropbear wants is something many youngsters want. This Australian import uses gouache, digital collage, and duct tape illustrations to both give readers a taste of the heebie-jeebies with something to be scared of. Thankfully the true, more friendly, nature of the Dropbear is shown, making readers feel comforted with the ending. Includes a short explanation of the Australian legend of this mythical creature.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library