Earlier this year, Disney published Ryan T. Higgins’ charming picture book Mother Bruce. Now a featured part of Scholastic Book Fairs, the original book told the story of a grumpy bear named Bruce who became the mother of four geese. Now Bruce and his kids are back for another story, Hotel Bruce.
This sequel picks up right where the first book left off. Bruce and his geese had migrated (by bus) to Florida for the winter. When they return home that spring, they discover that a trio of mice have moved in and rented out the place as a hotel. This obviously makes Bruce angry, resulting in some hilarious evictions.
With the same humor, charm and wit of the first book, Hotel Bruce offers a lot of fun for kids and parents. The artwork is so lovable and Bruce has an almost Eeyore-like quality to him. Even though he’s a grump, you still want to give him a hug.
The book is recommended for preschoolers, ages 3-5, and in addition to text features some hilarious speech bubbles. The dust jacked also reveals alternate artwork under the cover, with some of the hotel’s decor and wallpaper on the hardcover. Everyone is bound to have a good time when reading both Mother Bruce and Hotel Bruce.