Tag: Book Review

Episode 490 – The BABY Berenstain Bears: Potty Time

Kids be poopin’. This week on Deep In Bear Country, we take our first look at Mike Berenstain’s newest series, The Berenstain BABY Bears. A series of board books focusing on Honey, Teddi and… well, I’m certain there’s other little cubs around town.

In “It’s Potty Time” we dip back into the sewage filled well of potty training. Only, this time we’re looking at the WHYs of potty time as opposed to the whats. No stink lines or soggy puddles in THIS book; no, just drawing after drawing of toilets and the cubs who use them.

Episode 488 – The Berenstain Bears World’s #1 Teacher

This week, it’s the brand-new 2025 release The Berenstain Bears: World’s Number One Teacher, a compact “teacher gift” book built from classic illustrations of Teacher Jane, Teacher Bob, and maybe Actual Factual? I share a dedication to my own #1 teacher who’s retiring after 40 years in the classroom. Plus: a detour into Alessi vs. the Thompson Twins, candid talk on anxiety spending, and a reminder that the BusBoys’ “Cleanin’ Up the Town” deserves more love.

Episode 484 – The Berenstain Bears: World’s Wisest Mama Bear

In this week’s episode, I almost took a break again (thanks, cough!), but I’m here to bring you a quick Mother’s Day look at The Berenstain Bears: World’s Wisest Mama Bear — a 2024 gift book by Mike Berenstain.

PLUS — exciting news! Next episode is the 10-year anniversary of the podcast, and I’ll be joined by my collectors Brad and Jeremy!

So grab a cup of tea, wish your mom (or yourself?) a Happy Mother’s Day, and enjoy this short short short episode.

Episode 480 – The Berenstain Bears Meet the Easter Bunny!

In this egg-cellent Easter episode, we’re cracking open The Berenstain Bears Meet the Easter Bunny (2022), a delightful early reader book that reimagines the 1980s classic Easter Surprise — but with updated illustrations, a softer tone, and the return of everyone’s favorite grumpy hare!

But that’s not all! We dive DEEP into the strange, fascinating, and often completely made-up history of the Easter Bunny, from 16th-century German folklore to Victorian-era mythology to modern mall mascots. Is the Easter Bunny a magical hare? A burned-out holiday manager? A myth created by marketing? Let’s find out together. 🥚🐇🌸 🎨

PLUS: Why Mike Berenstain’s illustrations in this version might be the best Easter art we’ve ever seen in Bear Country.

Episode 473 – The Berenstain Bears We Love Our Teacher!

The Berenstain Bears’ Biggest Continuity Shake-Up?!

A new school year means new teachers, and Brother Bear is in for a surprise! In “The Berenstain Bears: We Love Our Teacher” (2024), we explore what makes a great teacher, the anxieties of moving up a grade, and—wait for it—some wild continuity-breaking moments in Bear Country history!

Can we pinpoint the date of this book down to the year? Why does Miz Bearly’s friend defy time itself? And do we finally learn Brother Bear’s real name?

We also dive into real-world history, from Rosie the Riveter to space exploration, and the importance of hands-on education. Plus, I share my own experiences with teachers who shaped my life (both the good and the terrifying).

What was your most memorable school year? Drop your best (or worst) teacher story in the comments!

Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into Bear Country!

Episode 471 – The Berenstain Bears Blast Off!

This week, the Bear Family gets into a bit of trouble in a completely believable and scientifically accurate way! It’s “The Berenstain Bears Blast Off!” and it’s steeped in believability! I swear!