Black text on a white, two-page spread announces the presence of "a polar bear in the snow." A smudgy black nose and mouth cleverly and unexpectedly appear against the white of the next spread as the bear "lifts his nose to sniff the air." Another page turn reveals two black eyes as the bear wakes up. "Where is he going?" The polar bear, whose white-paper body casts shadows against the white background, traverses the snowy landscape. "Is he going to visit the seals? No, he is not hungry." He passes a cave (layers upon layers of white paper), roars at a human, crosses mountains, and finally arrives at his destination: the cool blue sea, where he enjoys a playful swim. Afterward, back on the snow, the bear's round back end is seen retreating. He leaves only shadowy footprints behind as he heads toward a new, unknown destination. Verbal clues direct young readers to study clever illustrations full of depth and texture in this story time-friendly picture book. (Ages 3-7)

A majestic polar bear heads out on a mysterious walk in a dazzling, playful collaboration from an exciting pair of picture-book creators.

Follow a magnificent polar bear through a fantastic world of snow and shockingly blue sea. Over the ice, through the water, past Arctic animals and even a human . . . where is he going? What does he want? Acclaimed author Mac Barnett’s narration deftly balances suspense and emotion, as well as poignant, subtle themes, compelling us to follow the bear with each page turn. Artist Shawn Harris’s striking torn-paper illustrations layer white-on-white hues, with bolts of blue and an interplay of shadow and light, for a gorgeous view of a stark yet beautiful landscape. Simple and thought-provoking, illuminating and intriguing, this engaging picture book will have readers pondering the answer to its final question long after the polar bear has continued on his way.