And I Think About You

A mother bear at work all day never stops thinking about her child in this reassuring story with a heartwarming message.

In this tender picture book, a mother bear tells her child about her workday. She describes one activity after another, and follows each description with “And I think about you.” Illustrations show her at her tasks, with a corresponding activity she imagines with her child in a thought bubble beside her. Then, turn the page, and the child is shown participating in a parallel activity at school. So, the mother bear reads her emails, and thinks about reading to her child, while the child reads on the carpet in the classroom. She shares a project with her coworkers, and thinks about sharing time with her child on the sofa, while the child shares a pinwheel during circle time. The rhythmic pattern will enchant and delight young readers — all the way to the surprising end!

Rosanne L. Kurstedt beautifully captures the loving connection between a parent and child in this sweet story told in a gentle singsong narration, with sound effects. Ya-Ling Huang uses layers of watercolor and colored pencils to create a soft, transparent visual effect. The repeated refrain — “And I think about you” — is relatable, comforting and true, perfect for reassuring a child that, even out of sight, they are never out of their parents’ thoughts. This book will encourage sharing stories, and could spark a wonderful routine for readers. It offers an excellent opportunity to explore what parents do all day at work as well. It is also sure to resonate with parents.