A Hibernation Story Gone Hilariously Wrong (In the Best Way!)
Book review by children’s author Andrea Koehle Jones
This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book is pure joy! What starts as a cozy hibernation tale quickly turns into a laugh-out-loud adventure full of wild surprises—from disco balls to jazz flutes—that will crack kids (and parents) up over and over again.
Children need more fun, laugh-out-loud books like this—especially now. With lively, expressive illustrations by Jennifer Harney and clever humour by Brian Gehrlein, it’s the perfect read-aloud for bedtime or anytime you need a burst of silliness and joy. My favourite part is the surprise ending!
I’m thrilled to support Brian’s latest book—not only because he’s an incredible author and teacher, but also because he’s an outstanding editor. I’ve worked with many editors, and Brian is by far the best. He truly understands that children need characters who make them laugh out loud, and he knows how to craft stories that engage young readers and invite them to participate. His feedback has been a complete game-changer for my writing, and I’m so grateful for his insights on my manuscripts, especially Don’t Let Ned Plant a Tree!—which has just been picked up by a Canadian publisher for a spring 2026 release.
Wishing Brian, Jenn, Jennifer Mattson of Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers huge success with the launch of This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book—and many joyful laughs for children and parents everywhere.
#ThisIsNotASleepyBearBook