Into the Painted Bear Lair

A parent might reach for this book when their imaginative child is looking for a classic portal fantasy that feels both cozy and adventurous. It is perfect for readers who are ready for chapter books but not for the high stakes or scary scenes of more intense fantasy series. The story follows a young boy, Gregory, who discovers a magical toy store that contains a portal to another world inside a painting. He joins forces with a brave female knight named Sir Rosemary and a food-loving talking Bear on a quest to save a princess from a magic spell. Through their journey, the book explores gentle themes of friendship, finding your courage, and the wonder of discovery. It’s a charming, slightly old-fashioned read that sparks creativity and offers a comforting, whimsical adventure.