In the touching Brother Bear (based on the animated Disney movie of the same name) three brothers hunt, fish, and play together, until one of them is killed by a grizzly bear. The youngest brother, Kenai, vows to avenge his brother's death in spite of the totem and counsel he is given by the village elder: "Let love guide your actions." But Kenai scorns this notion: "You really think love has anything to do with being a man?" he cries. When he finally encounters the bear, however, something strange happens. Kenai is blinded by shafts of light, and spirit animals surround him. Suddenly, the boy becomes a bear--and his one remaining brother Denahi is hunting him! It takes a friendship with a bear cub and a long journey for Kenai-bear to finally embrace the true meaning of his totem.
Whether they see the movie or not, children will enjoy this Disney storybook, with its surprisingly lovely illustrations and simplified narrative. It's likely the book will inspire readers to see the movie for the full dramatic effects--and then use the book to relive the action. (Ages 5 to 8) --Emilie Coulter