Mama and Papa Bear are waiting for a special delivery, which finally arrives from the heavens above, but the bear cub they receive is not quite what they—and the rest of the forest animals—were expecting
Inspired by parents who adopted a child with a debilitating genetic disease, A Surprise in the Wood exalts the love that makes a family strong despite the surprises that sometimes come its way. This powerful allegory will resonate with any parent who expected a bear cub and instead received a goldfish. It teaches to cherish the fish and immerse oneself in another’s world, whether they breathe water or air. It also celebrates the value of community, especially when they learn to embrace difference. A Surprise in the Wood is a remarkable tale that delivers a moving and relatable story packed with emotional resonance and ultimately advocates for unconditional love and acceptance as a path through adversity. A donation from sales of the book will be made to the MCT8–AHDS Foundation, which inspired the story.
Praise
"[A] cozy story about forming a family. A bear couple waits for their cub to appear. When he does, Fin is a bit, well, fishier than expected. The woodland creatures initially seem skeptical, but the bears fully embrace the child they have. There’s not a moment’s hesitation as they accept their child’s differences and work to bridge experience gaps. Initially inspired by friends whose adopted son was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, the tale is infused with a dreamy, ethereal tone. The narrative perfectly matches the homey illustrations. Scuderi’s watercolor animals are rudimentary but appealing, with textured paper peeping through colored layers for an even more welcoming rustic feel. It adds to the earthy naturalness of the story. Why wouldn’t the bears utterly fall for their water-dwelling kiddo? And why wouldn’t their friends do the same? Any tension melts away under the warmth of their love.
VERDICT A comforting story for families of all stripes, with an added educational bonus showing acceptance of all for younger elementary children."
—School Library Journal
"Two bears adopt an unusual cub. . . One night, “a fine thread descend[s] from a star” and deposits Mama and Papa Bear’s child at 29 Wood Lane. Though initially startled to discover their “cub” is a goldfish, the parents welcome Fin warmly. . . Scuderi’s lush paintings deftly blend realistic animal depictions and subtle emotional expressions."
—Kirkus Reviews
