A Dot in the Snow

Mikki is a polar bear cub. Venturing away from his mother to explore he sees a red dot in the snow; a little girl. Time to play - but when an accident happens, can Mikki help? And as darkness falls and the polar white surrounds them, where is mum?

This gentle little story may be set in an icy landscape but it conveys the warmth of friendship, especially between childrent. It also reassures the young reader as both characters find themselves back where they belong. A conventional story, perhaps, but neatly told without fuss and with a pleasing directness. Fiona Woodward's illustrations capture the space and cold of the Arctic world, while the vivid red of the little girl's coat - the only colour against the cool whites, greys and an icy blue - creates a focus for the friendship between the two as well as emphasising their difference.  An attractive picture book, beautifully packaged ready to share.