If there’s one thing homeschoolers know well, it’s books. We take pride in our growing, cluttered shelves–our stacks here, there and everywhere. And when we find a new one that our kids take to heart, when we see them happily sprawled across their bed with a book in hand, we feel like perhaps we’re doing at least one thing right.
Best of all is when we stumble upon a character that becomes part of the family and journeys along with us, and today I’d like to introduce you to one: Growly Bear.
Growly, his family, and his neighborhood are the brainchildren of Phil and Erin Ulrich–work-at-home, homeschooling parents. Erin designs and produces websites and ebooks, and I’ve worked with her personally on several projects.
Now she and Phil have ventured into the world of fiction with their first book in a series all about Growly, called Begin.
About the book:
“For centuries the bears of Haven have lived quiet lives, high in the mountains at the edge of the great Precipice. That all changes for a young cub named Growly when he receives a mysterious message. With just his backpack and glider, Growly sets out on a desperate journey to find his grandfather’s long lost friend . . . and to find a way back home.
Begin is the first book in The Growly Books series. Written for the 8-12 year old reading level, Begin is also a captivating read aloud for younger children and will appeal to anyone who appreciates stories of adventure and friendship.”
Erin offered me a copy of Begin for review, and I read it myself first. When I finished I passed it on to Jonathan (age 8), who tore through it in one evening. The next morning I overheard him excitedly telling his brother Elijah all about Growly and his first journey.
Besides being a good story, I also love the character qualities that Growly Bear displays–on more than one instance he sacrifices his own convenience and even safety in order to help someone else. I am always on the hunt for books that inspire the character development I’m hoping to teach my little people.
Buy the Book
Begin is available as a print book in paperback for $7.99. Each copy includes some cool freebies: a three song download from the Here We Go CD (read more here), a bookmark, and a postcard. (Orders are currently shipping within one to two business days.)
The Kindle version is also available on Amazon for $4.99.
Giveaway
This giveaway has ended; thanks for your interest!
One Simple Homeschool reader will win an adorable 8×10 color print from the book! (Aren’t these gorgeous?! Annie Barnett of Be Small Studios created the sweet illustrations that accompany Growly’s story.)
To be entered to win, simply follow the instructions in the widget below: (If you’re reading this via email, click over to the main post to leave your comment.)
This giveaway has ended. Head here to buy your copy of Begin and claim your freebies.
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I just order the paper back. Hoping my middle child loves it. I think she will.
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