A small bear frolics in autumn leaves. While she plays, “the forest did its work” as sap flow slows down and more leaves let go. When it’s time for a long nap, Bear sleeps, “and the forest did its work. … Bacteria and fungi grew, while earthworms nibbled and chewed. Beetles and mites and slug and snails munched, too.” Bear awakens in spring, surprised that the leaves she played in are gone. Mama explains it’s because the forest did its work. Bear waits all summer, enjoying the sun and rich soil, but eager for the fallen leaves to return. When they finally do, she jumps in, and the leaves crumble: It turns out Bear, like the beetles and mites and slugs, and deer and moles and shrews, is also helping the forest ecosystem. An author’s note provides additional information on the role many creatures play or can play—including young humans!—in this seasonal cycle of breakdown and renewal. The informative, language-rich story is paired with pleasing watercolor illustrations. (Ages 3-7)

Bear waits for fall as she sees the forest shift through spring and summer in this charming picture book about how the forest regrows.

Bear loves jumping in leaf piles, but fall playtime ends with winter hibernation. When Bear wakes up she realizes it’ll be a while—through spring and summer—till the leaves will fall again. While she waits, she learns about the constant work the forest does to renew her playground—and how she helps. Alongside Bear squishing through springtime mud, chomping on summer dandelions, and stretching in the early fall sun, readers will see how the forest changes with every season.