Applegate, Katherine. Pocket Bear. Charles Santoso, Illus. Feiwel, 09/2025. 263pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-1-250-90436-2. GRADES 4–6. OUTSTANDING.
Refugees from Ukraine, Dasha and her mother start the Second Chances Home for the Tossed and Treasured, a refuge for lost toys that they refurbish to sell or give away. The story is told from the point of view of their cat Zephyrina, who watches the toys come to life at night and talk about their past. Pocket Bear was the mascot of an American soldier in World War I and Berwon was a German teddy bear from that same era; there is a dispute over Berwon’s ownership that adds some tension to the story. The plot moves briskly in short chapters that smoothly weave together the various elements, with Zephyrina adding humorous comments throughout the story. The parallel between Dasha’s experiences with war and Pocket Bear’s experience add depth and poignancy to a well-crafted tale. Pencil drawings appear once every few chapters, adding appeal for younger readers.
Penny Peck—San José State University iSchool