In a polarizing world, where Othering has divided and not united, where difference is a liability instead of a strength in the eyes of (far too) many (especially those in power), it’s important to teach our children (while being role models) that everyone has a unique (hi)story, set of interests and goals, hopes and dreams, and they are all of equal value. Such recognition of the worth of diversity in our social circles is a pathway to seeing we can learn from others while learning about ourselves when we step out of our comfort zone and engage with those who are different than we are.

So begins the thoughtful review by Joey Madia of Mawson Bear’s new book, No Bear Is An Island. Joey references the mighty words of John Donne in Devotions upon Emergent Occasions, 1624. ” No man is an island, entire of itself/Every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.” It would seem that somehow Mawson found this on the bookshelves when no-one was looking and pondered deeply upon it.

His own friends all seemed to be sitting among their concerns and interests and worries, as if each was on their own island, apart from the others. “What If”. wondered Mawson, there were some way to bring them together.

“Mawson, sensing the distant voices of his fellows (each with a whispered If only…), wants to rise to the occasion to assist and support them. What ensues is a lesson all of us need to hear—and act upon. To read and learn and think about by ourselves, and together, and by ourselves again.” Joey Madia.

Youtube: Here is the link to Joey Madia reading No Bear Is An Island on Youtube. Enjoy!

Please read the thoughts of Joey Madia at his most interesting blog site called New Mystics Reviews. He is also on Facebook and Youtube.

Where to find No Bear Is An Island

Where to find No Bear Is An Island: Just look for all the handsome bears on the cover.  ‘No Bear Is An Island’ , published by Baffled Bear Books, is on Bookshop Org (supporting Indie bookshops), on Apple Books, Walmart,  Amazon, Kobo, Ex Libris , Bol in France, Ad Libris, Kyngos, Browns Books UK, Lehmanns, Booktopia, and all over the place.

‘Mawson is a precious teddy  who should be a staple read on every little one’s bookshelf. He certainly has a home on ours.  I know he certainly inspired my own inner child.’
Lyndie, Bookaholic reviews. 

You are at Mark’s blog called Baffled Bear Books. Mark is a dark coffee tragic, bibliophile and Guardian of Mawson Bear, a Ponderer of Baffling Things and one of this bright world’s few published bears.