Title: Harold
Author: Sharon Rues
Illustrator: Dwain Esper
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 978-5049-5711-3
Pages: 28
Genre: Illustrated Children’s/ Juvenile Nonfiction
Reviewed by: Barbara Miller
Pacific Book Review Star
Awarded to Books of Excellent Merit
Pacific Book Review
In one word – Simply Adorable! (Okay, that’s two words). But it’s hard to put down in just one word how much of a wonderful illustrated children’s book author Sharon Rues wrote along with her illustrator extraordinaire Dwain Esper. Yes, a duet of talent; Rues’ wordsmithing and Esper’s happy colorful drawings bring the story of Harold, a chocolate brown stuffed furry teddy bear to life.
Originating as a gift under a Christmas tree, Harold became the best friend and companion of this little girl – taking Harold everywhere with her! To the grocery store, but most interestingly Harold went around Europe as a traveling teddy bear – to France, Denmark and many splendid places. Harold was always carried around by his ear – foreshadowing the unique and clever plot twist at the end of the story.

I read this book in its e-version on my computer and the drawings radiated off the screen like snapshots on the old View Master images of idyllic world landmarks. (Sorry kids, you’ll never know the early days of 3-D photography, since you live in this virtual reality world of incredible technologies.) Anyway, the storyboard imagery of traveling around Europe makes for wonderful imprints to youngsters – especially at bedtime being read this story. Plus the family life portrayed with the sisters running around in PJ’s is heartwarming – be careful not to slip on the stairs!
In today’s competitive market of emerging kid’s books, Harold is sure to create its fan base following and come out as a clear winner. This is exactly the blueprint for excellence in children’s storytelling. I certainly hope to see more from this talented team. Rues and Esper are destined for iconic duality like Batman and Robin; Penn and Teller, or Laurel and Hardy. Okay, again showing my age. Peanut butter and jelly – that’s more like it.
For those of you looking for a lovely gift for a toddler’s party, or little girls wanting to read their first books, or as an addition to your family library, buy Harold. While you’re at it, buy a brown stuffed teddy bear (and a needle and thread) as well. Make it a multi- media 4th dimensional keepsake gift ensemble. This is one storybook not to be missed!
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