This was just the cutest thing EVER! It reminded me of the Velveteen Rabbit but much less depressing. Made me cry happy tears, really. Great book to talk about friends. I would use this as a read-aloud, for independent readers, or for a discussion about what is important in friendships (is it flashy and nice looking, or is it more about the deeper stuff?).
Reading Level: 3.5 Interest Level: K-3 ( )

Looking at himself in the mirror one day, Bear realizes that he is a little the worse for wear, with his white fur "as dingy as an old sock," frayed patches on his back, a loose eye, and a nose that has a tendency to pop right off. He's all used up, he concludes, and begins to imagine all the terrible things that will happen to him - being turned into a cleaning rag, tossed in the cellar, or sold at a thrift store - once Clara, the little girl with whom he lives, no longer wants him. Fortunately, Clara has her wits about her, and seeing which way the wind is blowing, she takes steps to help her friend regain his confidence...

Like Bear at the Beach - Clay Carmichael's first story to feature this adorable ursine hero (there is a third title as well, Lonesome Bear) - this is a story with a strong melancholy strain to it. Any young reader who has felt neglected, or feared that their imperfections would prevent others from loving them, will identify with Bear, and thrill to the conclusion of his tale, in which those feelings of fear and hurt are proved baseless. The illustrations, done in pen-and-ink and watercolor, and utilizing simple lines and muted but appealing colors, are just as charming as in the first Bear book. All in all, Used-Up Bear is a delightful tale, one I would recommend to young readers in need of reassurance, and to fans of Clay Carmichael's artwork. ( )