We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Book (Summary)
The “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” story follows a family as they go on a bear hunt, encountering various obstacles such as long grass, a river, a swamp, and a snowstorm. Despite initially declaring that they are not scared, the family becomes increasingly frightened as they search for the bear.
Eventually, they come face to face with the bear in a cave and are forced to turn back and retrace their steps through all of the obstacles.
The story has repetitive phrases and helps teach concepts of over and under. It is suitable for young children and can be read or sung as a song.
The book has received praise for its catchy storyline, beautiful illustrations, and use of repetitive language and noisy words to describe the family’s journey. It is also considered a classic children’s book and is often used in classrooms and for bedtime stories.
Positive Messages For Kids, Parents, And Teachers
Some possible positive messages for kids, parents, and teachers from “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” could include:
Adventure and exploration can be fun and exciting, as long as you are prepared and take safety precautions.
It is important to face challenges and obstacles head-on, and not be afraid to try new things.
Working together as a team and supporting each other can help you overcome difficulties and achieve your goals.
It is natural to feel scared or intimidated by something unfamiliar or unknown, but it is important to try to overcome those feelings and move forward.
It is okay to be afraid, but you can still be brave and find ways to deal with your fears.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Reading Level
Based on the reviews, it appears that the 36-page “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” book is appropriate for children ranging in age from around 19 months to 5 years. Amazon lists the age as 2-4.
It is described as a favorite book for toddlers and a great choice for preschool storytime.
It is also noted as having repetitive phrases and illustrations that help with teaching concepts such as over/under, which could make it particularly suitable for younger children. Additionally, the catchy and enjoyable nature of the story is mentioned as making it a hit with children of all ages.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Story Characters
The characters in “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” are not given names and are simply represented as a family of siblings and their pet dog. They go on an adventure together to look for a bear, facing obstacles such as a river, a snowstorm, and a muddy swamp along the way. When they finally encounter the bear, they become scared and quickly return home.
Characters in the book include:
- Father
- Children
- Dog
Bear Hunt Song & Lyrics
The lyrics to the beloved children’s book “We’re Going On A Bear Hunt” have roots in an American folk song. Author Michael Rosen, who was inspired by the tune, incorporated it into his poetry performances and eventually used it as the basis for his book. It’s no wonder the book has remained a popular choice for families around the world since its release – with over 9 million copies sold and a spot on the list of the 5,000 best-selling books every year.
Source: Wikipedia
Going On A Bear Hunt Lyrics
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
(We’re Going on a Bear Hunt)
I’ve Got My Binoculars
(I’ve Got My Binoculars)
I’m Not Scared
(I’m Not Scared)
Oh, Look at That Tall, Wavy Grass
(It’s So Tall)
We Can’t Go Over It
(We Can’t Go Over It)
We Can’t Go Under It
(We Can’t Go Under It)
We’re Just Going to Have to Go Through It
(We’re Going to Have to Go Through It)
Swish, Swish, Shish, Swish
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
(We’re Going on a Bear Hunt)
I’ve Got My Binoculars
(I’ve Got My Binoculars)
I’m Not Scared
(I’m Not Scared)
Uh-oh, There’s a Big River
(Ooooh!)
We Can’t Go Over It
(We Can’t Go Over It)
We Can’t Go Under It
(We Can’t Go Under It)
We’re Just Going to Have to Swim It
(I Hope It’s Not Too Chilly)
Splash, Splash, Splash, Splash
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
(We’re Going on a Bear Hunt)
I’ve Got My Binoculars
(I’ve Got My Binoculars)
I’m Not Scared
(I’m Not Scared Either)
Ewww, Lokk at All That Mud
(Ewww, So Muddy)
We Can’t Go Over It
(We Can’t Go Over It)
We Can’t Go Under It
(We Can’t Go Under It)
We’re Just Going to Have to Go Through It
(Ewww, if We Have to)
Squish, Squish, Squish, Squish
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
(We’re Going on a Bear Hunt)
I’ve Got My Binoculars
(I’ve Got My Binoculars)
I’m Not Scared
(I’m Not Scared)
Oh Oh, What’s That?
(Ah, It’s a Cave)
We Can’t Go Over It
(We Can’t Go Over It)
We Can’t Go Under It
(We Can’t Go Under It)
We’re Just Going to Have to Go Into It
(Are You Sure?)
Step, Step, Step, Step
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
(We’re Going on a Bear Hunt)
I’ve Got My Binoculars
(I’ve Got My Binoculars Too)
I’m Not Scared
(I’m a Little Scared)
It Sure is Dark in Here
(What’s That in the Corner?)
I Feel Two Big Ears
(I Feel Two Big Ears)
I Feel One Wet Nose
(I Feel One Wet Nose)
I Feel Two Sharp Teeth
(I Know What That is)
What?
(It’s a Bear)
Let’s Get Out of Here
Let’s Run Back Through the Cave
Step, Step, Step
Okay, Quickly, Back Through the Mud
Squish, Squish, Squish
Okay, Let’s Cross the River!
Splash, Splash, Splash, Splash
Quick, Through the Tall Grass!
Swish, Swish, Shish
Quick Through the Yard!
Up the Stairs!
Into the House!
Close the Door!
Phew! Ah, We’re Safe
That Was a Close One
(Let’s Not Go Bear Hunting Anmore!)
About Children’s Book Author Michael Rosen
Michael Rosen is a well-known author and performer of children’s literature. He was born in Harrow, Middlesex, in 1946 to a Jewish family with roots in Poland, Romania, and Russia. His father, Harold Rosen, was a professor of English, and his mother, Connie, worked as a primary school teacher and training college lecturer.
Rosen attended state schools in Pinner and Harrow, as well as Watford Grammar School for Boys, and later graduated from Wadham College, Oxford, with a degree in English. He worked as a graduate trainee at the BBC before becoming a freelance writer, broadcaster, and performer in 1972. He has published numerous books of poetry and children’s literature, including “Mind Your Own Business,” “Quick, Let’s Get Out of Here,” and “Don’t Put Mustard in the Custard.”
Rosen has also presented television programs for children, such as “Walrus,” and has received various awards for his work, including the Children’s Book Award and the Eleanor Farjeon Award.
In addition to his writing career, Rosen has worked as a visiting professor at various universities and served as the Children’s Laureate from 2007 to 2009.
Rosen has been married three times and has five children and two step-children. His second son Eddie (1980–1999) died at the age of 18 from meningococcal septicemia, and his death was the inspiration for Rosen’s 2004 work Sad Book. Rosen lives in North London with his third wife, Emma-Louise Williams, and their two children.
Source: Wikipedia
You can also follow Michael on.
Michael Rosen’s website:
https://www.michaelrosen.co.uk/
Michael Rosen’s Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/michael.rosen.5496/
Michael Rosen’s Twitter page:
https://twitter.com/MichaelRosenYes – @MichaelRosenYes
Michael Rosen Books
Children’s book author Michael Rosen has 279 book titles listed on his Amazon authors page. You can also find a list of his books based on book types (children’s, non-fiction, picture books, and so on) on his website’s book page https://www.michaelrosen.co.uk/books/.
No information provided specifically states what inspired Michael Rosen to become an author. However, it is mentioned that he had an early talent for writing and enjoyed trying different kinds of writing, such as satirical poems about people he knew.
It is also mentioned that he grew up with an appreciation for the work of popular illustrators like Edward Ardizzone and E.H. Shepard and believes that “picture books are a child’s entrée into the world of books in general.” It is possible that these early experiences with writing and a love for children’s literature inspired Rosen to pursue a career as an author.
Helen Oxenbury Illustrator
Helen Oxenbury is a world-renowned children’s book illustrator and author known for her clear and detailed draughtsmanship. Her three series of board books, including “Friends,” “Playing,” and “Dressing,” revolutionized the form and have sold millions of copies internationally. Oxenbury has won numerous awards for her work, including the Kate Greenaway Award for “The Quangle-Wangle’s Hat” in 1969 and “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” in 2000.
She began her career as a set designer and painter in Tel Aviv before returning to London to work in film and television. She then turned to children’s book illustration, with her first book, “Numbers of Things,” published in 1967. Oxenbury has collaborated with poet Ivor Cutler and created the characters of Tom and Pippo, a mischievous young boy and his stuffed monkey.
Her other notable works include the books in the next section below.
Source: chrisbeetles.com
Books Illustrated by Helen Oxenbury
- “All Fall Down” follows a group of children as they navigate through different activities and emotions, including falling down and getting back up again.
- “I Can” is a book that encourages young children to learn and explore the world around them by saying, “I can.”
- “Pig Tale,” tells the story of a small pig who sets out on a big adventure.
- “Say Goodnight” is a bedtime story about saying goodnight to all of the objects and people in a child’s world.
- “The Helen Oxenbury Nursery Collection” is a compilation of classic nursery rhymes and songs illustrated by Oxenbury.
- “Tickle Tickle” is a playful book about tickling and the reactions it elicits.
- “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” is a classic tale of a young girl named Alice who falls down a rabbit hole and has a series of surreal and fantastical adventures.
- “Farmer Duck” is the story of a hardworking duck who stands up to an unfair farmer.
- “Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes” is a celebration of babies and their unique characteristics.
- “The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig” is a twist on the classic “Three Little Pigs” story, in which the wolves try to outsmart the big bad pig.
- “There’s Going to Be a Baby” is a story about the excitement and preparations that come with a new baby arriving.
- “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” follows a family on a playful adventure through different terrain as they search for a bear.
For more information about Helen Oxenbury, please visit the links below.
Helen Oxenbury’s Twitter page can be found here:
https://twitter.com/helenoxenbury – @HelenOxenbury
I’m not sure if this is Helen’s Pinterest Page or a fan page, but it’s filled with her illustrations:
https://www.pinterest.com/sanityfarm/helen-oxenbury-illustrations/
Helen Oxenbury’s Wikipedia page can be found here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_Oxenbury
Where to Buy The We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Book
In 1989, “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury, received widespread recognition for its excellence in children’s literature. It was awarded the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize in the overall category, as well as the 0-5 years category. Additionally, the book was honored as an ‘Honor Book’ in the Boston Globe–Horn Book Awards that same year.”
The book is available on Amazon for audiobooks, paperback, audio CDs, and board books. This link below leads to the board book edition, but all options are available on the landing page.
| Amaon.com (Board Book) | We’re Going on a Bear Hunt (Classic Board Books) Board book – October 1, 1997 |
| Authors Amazon BIO Page | Purchase More Michael Rosen Books on Amazon |
Book Details
Publisher: Little Simon; 4th ptg. edition (October 1, 1997)
Language: English
Board book: 36 pages
ISBN-10: 0689815816
ISBN-13: 978-0689815812
Reading age: 2 – 4 years, from customers
Lexile measure: 280L
Item Weight: 8.8 ounces
Dimensions: 5.31 x 0.8 x 5.13 inches
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Reviews
At the time of this writing, there were 11,993 customer reviews on Amazon with a star rating of 4.8 out of 5, with 89% of reviewers giving the book a 5-star rating. Below are a few of the top reviews of the book.
Delightful tale
– By A.L.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 14, 2020
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is a delightful tale of an adventure-seeking family.
On their way to catch the bear they find a number of obstacles (long wavy grass, squelchy mud, dark forest, swirling snow storm and dark gloomy cave) and they can’t “Go over It, Can’t go under it, Oh NO! they got to go through it“. Finally, the family reached to the cave where they find the bear, they got scared and ran back home, which wasn’t even easy as they had to face all those obstacles again.
The book can also be sung like a song and children just love it as well.
Watch Michael Rosen performing “We are going on a bear hunt” on YouTube!
Loved it
– By Irvin
Reviewed in the United States on October 30, 2022
Been wanting to buy this to read it to my 3 year old. Excellent story! Has repetitive phrases and helps with teaching over/under concepts. Have used it also in preschool for story time and kids stayed intrigued the whole time. Also, lots of activities online story related.
BRILLIANT, why can’t it be 100 pages longer?!?!
– By Elian
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 16, 2022
The book, “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” is a great read. My godson enjoys the adventure and the thrill when it was read to him. Id recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a temporary break from reality to wind down!
When you read this book, you experience the closeness of family, both in the book and within your own. But you also experience excitement throughout. Your young kids will feel the energy during the reading and it’s a great book to get your child interacting and helping with the reading. It’s a brilliant book and I hope you make it a part of your family to treasure forever!
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Read Aloud
Get ready to embark on an exciting bear hunt with these three engaging video read-aloud of “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.” From a female narrator showing the actual book pages to a catchy sing-along with a male narrator and guitarist to an animated sing-along with over 25 million views, each video offers something unique for the viewer.
Kids Book Read Aloud: WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT By Micheal Rosen shows pages of the actual book and is read by a female narrator.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt – Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury. This is a great catchy sing-along by a male narrator and guitarist. The video shows the book’s pages so you can see the illustrations.
Going on a Bear Hunt – The Kiboomers Preschool Songs for Circle Time is a singalong animated video with over 25 million views by “The Kiboomers – Kids Music Channel.”
