What do you do when you feel left out?

This is a discussion prompt for Blackboard Bear by Martha Alexander. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Have you ever had an imaginary friend? What was he or she like?

This is a discussion prompt for Blackboard Bear by Martha Alexander. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How does the boy use his imagination to solve his problem?

This is a discussion prompt for Blackboard Bear by Martha Alexander. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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Blackboard Bear

Name: Blackboard Bear
ISBN: 9780803706521

by Martha Alexander

Left out by the big kids, a little boy draws a giant bear that comes to life. A charming story about the power of imagination and coping with exclusion.

About This Book

When a little boy is not allowed to play with the older children, he creates an imaginary friend by drawing a giant bear on his blackboard.

Concepts

Loneliness & Belonging Creativity & Imagination Friendship & Loyalty Self-Confidence & Identity Resilience & Perseverance Joy & Gratitude Making Friends Being Different Bears Friendship & Social

Wonderlit Review

Martha Alexander's "Blackboard Bear" is a gentle and heartwarming story about a young boy who finds a creative solution to his loneliness. When he's excluded from playing with older children, he retreats to his blackboard and draws a magnificent bear, who instantly becomes his loyal companion. The narrative beautifully illustrates the power of imagination to provide comfort and friendship, transforming a moment of sadness into one of playful joy. This book is ideal for children aged 4-8 who might be experiencing feelings of being left out or are just beginning to explore the depths of their own imaginative worlds. Parents can use this story to open conversations about coping with loneliness, the importance of creative play, and how to find happiness even when things don't go as planned. It's a comforting read that reminds children that sometimes, the best friends are the ones we create ourselves.