The Bear Under the Stairs

A parent might reach for this book when their child is experiencing a common childhood fear of a dark or unknown space, like a closet or the space under the stairs. This story follows a little boy named William who is convinced a sad, hungry bear lives in the dark cupboard under the stairs. Instead of dismissing his fear, the story follows William as his powerful imagination leads him to care for the creature, leaving it food and worrying about it. The book gently explores how curiosity and empathy can transform anxiety into bravery. With its warm, expressive illustrations, this book is perfect for ages 3 to 7. It masterfully validates a child's imaginative world without validating the fear itself. It empowers children by showing how they can use their own curiosity to investigate and understand the things that scare them, making it a comforting and constructive choice for tackling everyday anxieties.