Bear Feels Sick
written by Karma Wilson
illustrated by Jane Chapman

Bear Feels Sick is an adorable book in the Bear & Friends series!  In the story, autumn has come to the woods, and Bear doesn't feel well. He sniffles and sneezes. He cannot sleep. He aches all over. Worst of all, he's feeling too poorly to play with his friends.  How Bear's good friends take care of him with herbal tea and lullabies until he begins to FEEL BETTER is the heart of this loving story that will be familiar to any little one who has ever had the sniffles.  A sweet story of friendship and compassion.

"The rhyming text and oft-repeated refrain ("Bear feels sick") make this book irresistible when read aloud. Chapman's illustrations are warm and cozy. Bear is big and cuddly...The paintings glow with the light of the fire and the heat of the cave. What more could anyone ask when under the weather than a snug house and plenty of TLC?  (School Library Journal)

Interest Level:   Preschool - Grade 2
DRA Level:   18
Lexile Measure:   390L
Grade Level Equivalent:  1.8  
Guided Reading Level:   K

Read-Aloud vs. Individual Reading:
For kids in preschool to first grade, this book will need to be a read-aloud rather than for individual reading, as the reading level will be too high for kids that age. Most second graders will be able to read this book on their own about mid-year.

Have kids make this cute bear mask, and then have kids retell the story (like they are the bear explaining the story.)
Bear Feels Sick activity

Have kids complete this sneezing kid picture, then write about who they'd like to come over if they feel sick
Bear Feels Sick activity

Have kids practice retelling by completing this free story map handout (or use it to check comprehension)
Bear Feels Sick activity

Have kids make a cute paper plate bear craft that will work with any of the books in this adorable series.
Bear Feels Sick art activity

character education books for kids

DRA Level 18 books  / Guided Reading Level K books