Author & Illustrator Profile
Jan Berenstain
78 Books
Jan Berenstain was an acclaimed American author and illustrator, widely recognized as the co-creator of the immensely popular Berenstain Bears children's book series. Working with her husband Stan Berenstain, she crafted hundreds of stories that charmed generations with their gentle humor and thoughtful lessons, as seen in books like "The Berenstain Bears and Too Much TV." Their work often focused on relatable family situations and character development, making the Bear family a staple in early childhood education.
Sometimes people do things that are incredibly frustrating, and it is easy to let your anger bubble up inside. When someone hurts your feelings or makes a mistake, holding onto that heavy anger can actually make you feel worse. You will join the young cubs as they experience the sting of being wronged and the difficult challenge of letting that anger go. This gentle story walks you through the steps of controlling your emotions and learning how to offer genuine forgiveness. Watch as the Bear family demonstrates how showing compassion can mend broken friendships and heal hurt feelings. It is a wonderful guide to help you understand that while everyone makes mistakes, choosing to forgive makes your own heart feel lighter and brighter.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Do you love watching TV? So do Papa Bear, Brother Bear, and Sister Bear! They enjoy it so much that they start spending all their time watching shows. But what happens when you watch too much? Mama Bear notices that the family is missing out on all the fun and beauty of the world outside their window.
Join the Berenstain Bears as Mama comes up with a clever plan to get everyone to turn off the screen and discover exciting things to do outdoors. Will Papa, Brother, and Sister find joy beyond the living room couch? This classic story will help you think about finding a good balance between screen time and exploring all the wonderful adventures waiting for you outside!
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Jump into the heartwarming world of the Berenstain Bears with Brother and Sister Bear as they celebrate their wonderful Gramps and Gran! This special book brings together two delightful stories about family fun and valuable lessons.
First, join Brother and Sister for a super fun-filled week at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Imagine all the exciting things you could do with your own grandparents! Then, when Brother Bear finds himself in a bit of a pickle with his homework, he knows just who to turn to for wise advice: Gramps and Gran! They're always there to help, whether it's with school troubles or simply having a great time together.
Discover how much fun and comfort grandparents can bring in these gentle, humorous tales perfect for young readers.
6-8 Years
72 Pages
Have you ever felt a little scared when a big storm rolls in? Brother Bear and Sister Bear know just how that feels when a huge storm shakes Bear Country! Thunder rumbles, lightning flashes, and the cubs start to worry. But Papa Bear and Mama Bear are there to help them. Join the Berenstain Bears as Mama and Papa remind the cubs that even when things seem scary, there are so many wonderful things to be thankful for. You'll learn right along with Brother and Sister that the best blessings aren't always toys or games, but things like family love and feeling safe together. This comforting story will help you think about all the special blessings in your own life.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Jump In!
Get ready for an adventure in Bear Country with the Berenstain Bears! Mama Bear loves making beautiful quilts, and now she's decided to open her very own quilt shop. That means her hobby is becoming a new job!
What Happens Next?
When Mama starts her new business, things change for Papa Bear, Brother Bear, and Sister Bear. Everyone in the family needs to learn new routines and find ways to help out more around the house. It's a big adjustment, but they all want to support Mama's exciting new dream.
Why It Pulls You In!
This heartwarming story shows how families work together, adapt to new responsibilities, and celebrate each other's successes. You'll discover how the Berenstain Bears learn to pitch in and feel proud of Mama and her wonderful quilt shop!
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Put on your exploring hat and join the Good Deed Scouts for a sticky, sweet adventure. Papa Bear is taking the scouts on a special honey hunt through the woods of Bear Country. But this trip is about more than just finding delicious honey. Along the way, the scouts discover that working together and helping others is the most important part of their journey. Whether they are lending a hand to a neighbor or showing respect to the forest around them, the cubs learn how everyday actions can make a big difference. This uplifting story combines a fun woodland trek with gentle lessons about responsibility and kindness. It is a perfect read for young scouts who want to learn how good deeds can make the world a sweeter place.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
A wonderful secret is brewing inside the Bear family treehouse. Mama Bear has just announced that she is going to have a new baby, and Sister Bear is bubbling over with curiosity. She has a million questions about where the tiny cub came from and exactly how it is going to arrive. You will follow along as Mama and Papa provide gentle, honest answers to Sister's natural curiosity about how families grow. This thoughtful story introduces you to the basic concepts of life and babies in a way that is clear and easy to understand. Join the bears as they explore the wonders of nature and prepare their home for a brand new arrival. It is a beautiful look at the miraculous way life begins.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Sister Bear has never been a fan of gym class. When she accidentally twists her ankle, she suddenly has the perfect excuse to sit on the sidelines. The doctor writes her an excuse note, and Sister is thrilled to skip the exercises she dislikes. But even after her ankle is completely healed, she keeps using the note to avoid participating. Will she stay out of the game forever, or will she find the courage to jump back in? This relatable school story teaches you about overcoming the fear of trying physical activities. You will learn why it is so important to stay active and challenge yourself.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Welcoming a new animal into the home is incredibly exciting, but it also takes a lot of hard work. Brother and Sister Bear are thrilled when they finally get their very own puppy. They make all sorts of big promises about feeding, walking, and training their new furry friend. However, the cubs quickly discover that taking care of a energetic little dog is much more demanding than they originally thought. You will follow along as the reality of early morning walks and messy accidents starts to set in. This engaging story honestly explores the daily challenges and rewards of pet ownership. Through trial and error, the cubs learn that a new puppy is not just a playful toy, but a living creature that relies on them completely.
6-8 Years
19 Pages
Come along with the Berenstain Bears' Sunday school class for a wonderful nature walk! Missus Ursula, their kind teacher, wants to show everyone just how amazing God's world truly is.
As you explore the beautiful outdoors with Brother Bear, Sister Bear, and all their friends, you'll discover so many bright and colorful things. Look closely at the fluffy clouds in the sky, the tall green trees, and the tiny busy insects. You'll see sparkling rivers and vibrant flowers! This lovely adventure teaches you to slow down, observe, and feel thankful for all the incredible creatures and plants around us. It's a special way to appreciate the gifts of nature and the beauty of creation, making every outdoor moment a chance to learn and wonder.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Engines roar and tires squeal as the biggest road race in Bear Country gets underway. Papa Bear and the rest of the family watch eagerly from the sidelines as a little red car lines up against a pack of massive orange, yellow, green, and blue racing machines. You will feel the excitement as the little car tries to keep up with the fierce and fast competition on the twisting track. When the race gets tough and the bigger cars try to pull ahead, the little red car must decide whether to give up or keep pushing forward. This fast-paced adventure shows you why it is so important to keep trying your hardest, no matter the odds. Discover how true sportsmanship and quiet persistence can sometimes outpace the biggest and loudest competitors on the road.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
It is November in Bear Country, and the annual Thanksgiving Festival is right around the corner. The Bear family is completely focused on one big goal: winning the blue ribbon in the Big Pumpkin Contest. As the competition heats up, everyone gets caught up in the excitement of growing the biggest and best pumpkin possible. But in the rush to take home the top prize, they might be forgetting what the holiday is actually about. You will join the family as they learn to pause, look around, and count their blessings. This heartwarming holiday story highlights the importance of gratitude over winning. Discover how the family finds a new appreciation for the true spirit of the season and all the wonderful things they have to be thankful for.
6-8 Years
36 Pages
Get ready for a hilarious avalanche of words that all begin with the exact same letter. In this entertaining adventure, a simple starting point quickly snowballs into a massive, bouncing, bumping chain reaction of fun. You will follow along as the story builds and builds, challenging you to keep up with the fast-paced tongue twisters and silly situations. It is the perfect way to build reading confidence while enjoying a truly comical storyline. The clever use of thirty-three specific words makes every page a new opportunity to practice sounds and spelling in a highly engaging way. Dive right into the action and see if you can read the whole exciting climax without getting your words twisted.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
A precious dinosaur bone has vanished from the Bear Museum just before the grand opening. Brother and Sister Bear are determined to solve the mystery and find the missing artifact before it is too late. Grab your magnifying glass and join the young detectives as they search high and low, from the dusty corners of the Mummy Room to the grand displays in the Hall of Famous Bears. You will need to look carefully at every clue to help them figure out exactly who took the bone. This fun and simple story helps you practice reading on your own while following a clever mystery. With bright pictures and easy words, you can gain confidence in your reading skills as you crack the case alongside your favorite furry friends in Bear Country.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
The Bear Town Festival is today, and the whole family is incredibly excited to go. But on the way there, the Bear family car suddenly breaks down on the side of the road. While they wait for help, they meet some folks they usually ignore. Through this unexpected delay, Brother, Sister, Mama, and Papa learn that being a good neighbor means much more than just living next door to someone. It means showing kindness to everyone you meet. This lovely story teaches you how to keep an open mind and a caring heart, proving that true community is built on helping others in times of need.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Do you think money grows on trees? Brother and Sister Bear certainly act like it. Mama and Papa are starting to worry about the cubs and their careless spending habits. To earn their own spending money, Brother and Sister decide to start a few businesses. From running a cool lemonade stand to starting a busy pet walking service, the cubs quickly realize that earning cash takes hard work. Jump into this classic Bear Country adventure to learn all about the value of a dollar. You will see exactly why being responsible with your money is such an important lesson for every young cub to master.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Growing up is full of brand new experiences that can feel a little bit scary at first. This special collection brings together five classic adventures from Bear Country to help you navigate some of life's tricky firsts. You will join the Bear family as they welcome a tiny new baby into their treehouse, learn how to be brave during an evening with a babysitter, and figure out the best way to tackle a very messy bedroom. You can also follow along as Sister Bear overcomes her worry about the dark and when the cubs take a trip to visit the doctor. Each story offers gentle wisdom and plenty of laughs to show you that trying new things is a normal part of growing up. Spend some time with Brother and Sister as they tackle everyday challenges with the help of Mama and Papa.
6-8 Years
160 Pages
Mother's Day is fast approaching, and Papa Bear and the cubs are determined to make it the most special day ever. They have planned a wonderful surprise, complete with a beautiful gift and a delicious breakfast served right in bed. The only problem is trying to keep the whole thing a secret. You will follow the hilarious attempts of the cubs and Papa as they sneak around trying to prepare the perfect morning without giving away their plans. Meanwhile, Mama Bear is doing her absolute best to play along and not ruin the wonderful surprise they are working so hard to put together. This thoughtful story beautifully captures the fun and love of family celebrations, showing how much joy comes from doing something kind for someone you care about.
6-8 Years
74 Pages
Party hats, colorful balloons, and a towering cake mean it is time to celebrate Sister Bear's birthday. Mama and Papa have planned an enormous party with games, presents, and a massive guest list. But as the noise gets louder and the activities pile up, Sister starts to feel completely overwhelmed by all the fuss. You will understand exactly how she feels when a special day suddenly turns into too much pressure. This relatable story helps you see that a birthday does not have to be huge and chaotic to be wonderful. Join the Bear family as they step back from the massive celebration to remember the real reason for the day. Discover how the best part of getting older is simply sharing quiet, joyful moments with the people who love you.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
The holiday season has arrived in Bear Country, and Brother and Sister Bear are busy writing incredibly long lists for Santa. Their minds are filled with thoughts of bright new toys and shiny gifts waiting under the tree. But as Christmas morning approaches, the cubs begin to notice the flurry of joyful preparations happening all around them. You will discover along with Sister and Brother that the magic of the season stretches far beyond the colorful packages. This heartwarming holiday tale invites you to explore the true spirit of Christmas alongside your favorite bear family. Join Mama and Papa as they help the young cubs understand that the greatest joy of the holidays comes from sharing your blessings and giving to others, rather than just receiving.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
The beautiful forests and clear streams of Bear Country are starting to look a little messy. Careless citizens are leaving trash behind, and the natural resources are slowly being damaged by waste and pollution. Brother and Sister Bear decide they cannot just sit by and watch their home lose its sparkle, so they start the Earthsavers Club to take action. You will join the cubs as they rally their community to clean up the environment and change their wasteful habits. This inspiring story shows you how small changes, like picking up litter and being mindful of nature, can make a massive difference for our planet. Follow the Bear family's ecological journey and discover how you, too, can step up and become a protector of the earth.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Autumn leaves are falling, and the Bear cubs are busy preparing a wonderful play to celebrate the very first Thanksgiving. Brother, Sister, and Honey Bear are diving into history by organizing costumes, building sets, and acting out the journey of the pilgrims. You will join the cubs as they learn how the early settlers built a new life and shared a massive harvest feast with their new friends. The community gathers together to enjoy a wonderful meal filled with warm breads, sweet potatoes, and plenty of delicious vegetables. This gentle holiday story helps you explore the rich history of Thanksgiving while reflecting on the importance of gratitude. Discover how expressing thankfulness for your family, your friends, and a bountiful table makes the holiday truly special.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
A Book for Dads and Kids
Father's Day has arrived in Bear Country, and Papa Bear is feeling a little bit left out. As he goes about his morning routine, it seems like Mama Bear and the cubs have completely forgotten all about his special day. No one has mentioned a celebration, and there are absolutely no wrapped boxes or festive cards in sight. You will follow Papa as he tries to hide his disappointment, completely unaware that his family has been working behind his back on an incredibly special, top-secret project just for him. This heartwarming story is a wonderful tribute to all the hard work and love that fathers provide. Discover the joy of giving back and watch Papa's surprise unfold in a celebration that proves some gifts are definitely worth the wait.
6-8 Years
19 Pages
Brother and Sister Bear are in for a big surprise. Mama and Papa are going out of town, leaving the cubs with their grandparents for a whole week. At first, they are not sure what to expect. Will it be boring without their usual toys? But soon, they are exploring a dusty attic, eating delicious cookies, going fishing, and even dancing at a hoedown. You will discover that spending time with your grandparents can lead to totally unexpected adventures. This classic Bear Country tale shows just how much fun you can have when you connect with an older generation. Pack your bags for a memorable family visit!
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Making a brand new friend is incredibly exciting. When a new cub named Lizzie moves into the house down the road, Sister Bear is absolutely thrilled. She finally has someone her own age to play with. At first, they have a wonderful time together, playing games and exploring. But soon, things get tricky. Both Sister and Lizzie want to be the boss and make all the rules. Their fun playdates quickly turn into grumpy arguments. How can they save their new friendship? This honest and helpful story shows that playing together is a skill you have to practice. It is a fantastic guide for learning how to share, take turns, and compromise so that everyone can have a good time.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
The lively paths of Bear Country are filled with all sorts of interesting folks, but Sister Bear has developed a dangerous habit of talking to anyone she meets. When Papa and Mama notice her chatting with people she does not know, they realize it is time for a serious family discussion. You will sit down with Brother and Sister to learn the crucial difference between being polite and staying safe. This essential story teaches you how to recognize strangers and what steps to take if you ever feel uncomfortable. By following the clear, simple rules laid out by the Bear family, you can navigate your neighborhood with confidence and caution. Discover how smart decision-making helps keep every young cub safe when they step out the front door.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Sister Bear has developed a very pesky problem. She has started biting her nails, and she just cannot seem to stop. What begins as a nervous tick quickly turns into a full blown bad habit. Mama, Papa, and Brother Bear all try different tricks to help her kick the nail nibbling once and for all. Will any of their ideas work, or is Sister stuck with this habit forever? You will join the Bear family as they tackle this frustrating challenge together. This supportive story provides gentle encouragement, showing you that with a little willpower and help from your family, any bad habit can be broken.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
It can be really difficult to say no when older kids are pushing you to do something. Brother Bear finds himself in a tight spot when Too-Tall Grizzly and his tough crew start daring him to do risky things. To prove he is brave and fit in with the older cubs, Brother agrees to take on their dangerous challenges. But as the dares get bigger and scarier, Brother realizes he might be making a terrible mistake. He has to decide if impressing Too-Tall is worth the trouble. This important story explores the heavy weight of peer pressure. It helps you understand that real courage is not about taking foolish risks, but about having the strength to think for yourself and do what you know is right.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
The deep woods are dark and quiet as Brother, Sister, and Cousin Fred set up their Bear Scout camp for the night. The campfire is crackling, but the shadows look a little spooky. Suddenly, the cubs spot a terrifying ghost moving through the trees! You will soon discover that the scary spirit is actually just Papa Bear trying to pull a silly trick on the young campers. But the joke takes a surprising turn, and Papa ends up learning a lesson of his own. This funny outdoor adventure shows you why practical jokes can sometimes go too far and upset the people you care about. Join the Bear family around the campfire for a double dose of spooky fun and a great lesson about honesty.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Staying focused on school assignments can be a major challenge when there are so many fun things to do instead. Brother Bear is currently letting his daily homework slide, choosing to spend his afternoons watching television, listening to his boom box, and talking on the telephone. Before long, his ignored assignments begin to pile up, and his grades start to slip. The situation reaches a breaking point when Teacher Bob sends a formal note home to Mama and Papa Bear. You will follow Brother as he faces the disappointing consequences of his constant procrastination. This highly relatable story highlights the importance of managing time and staying committed to your education. Discover how the family works together to help Brother eliminate his distractions, build better study habits, and finally get his academic progress back on track.
6-8 Years
36 Pages
Packing up all your favorite toys and saying goodbye to your friends can feel a little scary. When the Bear family decides it is time to move out of their home in the mountains, Brother Bear feels worried about what comes next. Join Mama, Papa, and Brother as they gather their belongings and make the journey down a sunny dirt road to their brand new home.
As the family settles into their spacious new tree house, you get to experience all the feelings of moving right along with them. From the bumpy ride in the moving truck to exploring new rooms, this comforting story shows that a new house can quickly become a wonderful home. It is a great read if you are getting ready to move to a new place yourself.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Have you ever felt a little nervous when the lights go out? Sister Bear certainly has. After listening to a spooky story right before bedtime, the shadows in her room suddenly look very scary. Every creak and groan of the treehouse makes her jump. But do not worry, because Papa Bear knows exactly what to do. He steps in with a clever and comforting plan to show Sister that the dark is nothing to fear. Together, they explore the night and discover that the dark can actually be peaceful and quiet. This comforting and cozy story is perfect for anyone who sometimes feels afraid at bedtime. It offers gentle reassurance and shows you how a little bit of bravery can make the nighttime feel safe and snug.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Have you ever noticed how fast your closets and drawers can fill up with things you no longer use? When Mama Bear looks around the treehouse, she realizes the Bear family has collected way too much stuff. The attic is bursting, and the basement is completely packed. It is time for a massive cleanup in Bear Country. Join Papa, Mama, Brother, and Sister as they sort through old games, clothes, and toys. Instead of just throwing things away, they discover a wonderful idea. They can share their extra belongings with others who truly need them. This heartwarming tale shows you the joy of giving and the great feeling that comes from helping your community. It is a wonderful story about sharing, caring, and making room for what really matters.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Money can be tricky to manage, especially when you want to buy everything in the store. Brother and Sister Bear have a habit of spending their allowance the second they get it. Their pockets are always empty, and Papa Bear decides it is time for a change. He introduces the cubs to a new way of handling their money, helping them learn how to budget, save, and make smart choices. But learning the true value of a dollar takes a little practice and a few mistakes along the way. This practical and engaging story is a fantastic way to learn about financial responsibility. It shows you that saving up for something special feels incredibly rewarding and that smart choices pay off in the end.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
It is time for a checkup in Bear Country. Mama, Papa, Brother, and Sister are heading to Doctor Grizzly's office for their regular health visits. If you have ever wondered what happens at the doctor's office, you can join the Bear family and find out. You will see how Doctor Grizzly checks their eyes, looks in their ears, and listens to their hearts to make sure they are growing up strong and healthy. Sister Bear even shows how to be brave when it is time for a booster shot. But the funniest part happens when strong Papa Bear realizes he might be the one coming down with a sniffle. This helpful and cheerful story is the perfect way to see that visiting the doctor is a normal, caring part of staying healthy.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Nobody really enjoys cleaning up, and the Bear family is no exception. Papa Bear and the cubs have decided that they would much rather skip their daily household chores and focus on having fun instead. To their surprise, Mama Bear decides not to argue and simply goes along with their new plan to ignore the dusting, sweeping, and tidying. You will watch as the treehouse slowly transforms from a neat and cozy home into a completely disorganized mess. As the clutter piles up and things become impossible to find, the family quickly realizes that avoiding their responsibilities comes with a cost. This entertaining and highly relatable story highlights exactly why everyone needs to pitch in. Discover how the family learns the importance of teamwork and keeping their living space comfortable for everyone.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Mama and Papa Bear are getting dressed up for a special evening out, which means Brother and Sister are going to have a babysitter. The cubs are not so sure about this idea at first. They wonder what it will be like to spend the evening with Mrs. Grizzle from down the road. Will she be strict? Will she let them play? When Mrs. Grizzle arrives with her big bag of surprises, the cubs quickly discover that having a sitter can be an absolute blast. From playing fun parlor games to reading cozy stories, the evening is packed with laughter. This warm and reassuring tale is perfect for showing you how much fun a night with a babysitter can be, full of new games and sweet dreams.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Whenever something goes wrong in the treehouse, the pointing fingers come out. Brother blames Sister, Sister blames Brother, and even Mama and Papa get caught up in pointing out each others mistakes. The Bear family is stuck in a terrible habit of figuring out whose fault a problem is, instead of actually fixing it. It is exhausting and makes everyone grumpy. Join the Bear family as they realize that arguing over spilled milk does not clean up the mess. You will learn how to pause, work together, and solve problems as a team without playing the useless blame game.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Even the closest brothers and sisters do not always get along perfectly. One gloomy morning in Bear Country, Brother and Sister Bear wake up feeling extra grumpy. Before long, a tiny disagreement turns into a great big argument, and the two siblings are not speaking to each other at all.
When you are feeling frustrated with your own family, this familiar story shows exactly how quickly a bad mood can cause trouble. You will watch Mama and Papa Bear step in to help the cubs understand their feelings and find a way to apologize. It is a wonderful reminder that even when you argue with the people you love, a little kindness and a sincere apology can fix almost anything.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Three brave little bears are about to go on a thrilling adventure. Standing before them is a mysterious, spooky old tree. Do they dare go inside? Follow along as they climb into, up, through, over, down, and out of the creepy branches and dark hollows. With every turn of the page, you will wonder if the bears have the courage to keep going or if they will lose their nerve and turn back. This classic Bear Country journey is filled with fun chills and exciting moments. Get ready to explore the unknown and discover if you are brave enough to face the spooky old tree.
6-8 Years
24 Pages
