The Bear-Shaped Hole

Discover a heartwarming story that will help children understand and prepare for a loss.

Gerda and Orlo are bear best friends. When Gerda was there, Orlo always had time. For a game or a story, a joke or a rhyme. He was never too busy to listen, to talk. To help, or to share, or to go for a walk.

But slowly--at first--something starts to change and Orlo reveals he is sick and not going to get better. Gerda is filled with emotions that she cannot explain but Orlo is there to help her prepare and they spend their time together making memories that will last a lifetime. So, when the time comes, Gerda can fill up the Bear-Shaped hole in her life with the special memories she created with Orlo.

Another powerful and moving picture book from John Dougherty and Thomas Docherty, award-winning creators of the acclaimed The Hare-Shaped Hole, that sensitively explores the preparation before loss as well as the loss itself.

This poignant story is perfect for talking to children about the varying types of loss, from moving schools and losing a cherished toy, to the death of a beloved pet or family member.

John Dougherty was born in Larne, Northern Ireland, and not many years later they made him go to school-an experience he didn’t find entirely enjoyable. Fortunately, the joys of reading helped him through the difficult times. It’s therefore not completely surprising that when he grew up he became first a teacher (the nice sort), and then an award-winning writer of stories and poetry for children. He also writes songs, some of which he performs with First Draft, a band made up of three children’s authors and a bookseller. He now lives in England with his two children.

Thomas Docherty is an author and illustrator of children’s books, who is based in Swansea. His first picture book, The Little Boat was shortlisted for the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal, and he has also worked on several books with his wife Helen Docherty, including The Snatchabook and The Knight Who Wouldn’t Fight. His books have been sold around the world and have eben translated into more than 25 languages.