POCKET BEAR by Katherine Applegate

I did not know of mascot bears (also called soldier bears or pocket bears) of WWI, little reminders of home and loved ones. This is a delightful story of teamwork and courage, toys restored at Tossed and Treasured, of doing the best one can and standing up to unscrupulous bullies and daring to make friends, told by Zephyrina, Kleptocat extraordinaire. It’s also a gentle warning insight into war, “when a bomb goes off, everybody is scared and wants someone to hold on to.”
This is a chapter book, but it does have lovely illustrations as well, and would reward a young reader’s efforts and hold interest well. IMHO, one is never too old for a book, and I found this a perfect one to read after the rougher, but in some ways similar, THE SHAPE OF WATER.
The Author’s Notes contained heartening information, a real company called “Loved Before” that refurbishes stuffed toys for new homes — I can’t help wondering if they use hibernation in a freezer followed by a “spa day” on their second chance toys.

I can see this book being read to third and fourth graders. I can see them suddenly falling in love with Pocket Bear and I can see their curiosity coming alive as they learn about Pocket Bear's history as well as Berwon's story. Pocket bears were carried during World War I, in their soldiers' pockets. The eyes were positioned so the bears look upwards, so they could be a comfort to their soldiers.

Moving to present day, our hero cat, Zephyrina, returns home one night to Second Chances, clutching a much larger stuffed bear who she rescued from a dumpster. Covered in spaghetti sauce and parsley and other things not named, this stuffed bear is a real mess. Elizaveta and her daughter, Dasha, immigrants from war-torn Ukraine, know how to clean up these poor bedraggled stuffies. Pocket Bear, who lives a typical stuffed toy life during the day, becomes the leader of the pack at midnight when all the stuffies come to life for a few brief hours. Pocket Bear taught himself to read and he recognizes the large stuffed bear, Berwon, as something extra special.

Every story needs a villain and Applegate has provided the perfect villain, Picky Vicky, a toy collector who sets out to steal Berwon. Zephyrina, taking many chances and in danger of using up several of her nine lives, steps into the position of hero and saves the day. We also meet John, a toy museum director. (Children might be surprised to know there are toy museums and museums geared to the interests of children.)

The story is written in very short chapters, and there are a number of black and white drawings. While we are told Dasha uses crutches because she lost her leg in a bombing in Ukraine, the story does not describe the injury nor dwell on the war.

Pocket Bear is an astounding bear and in charge of all the second-hand toys at the Second Chances Home for the Tossed and Treasured. Pocket Bear is over 100 years old and is a small hand-sewn bear that was put in the pocket of a soldier's uniform to give him comfort. When a new bear joins the group, a new adventure unfolds. It is a great story about how everyone deserves second chances. This would be great in an upper elementary or even middle school class to be used when studying World War 1. It also covers topics such as vintage toys, theft, love, loyalty, friendship, and hope.

True friends are like stars: always there, even when you can’t see them” Pocket Bear is a beautifully crafted story that captures the imagination. Katherine Applegate has woven yet another timeless tale that will resonate with readers for generations.
The novel's short chapters are perfect for young readers, making it accessible and engaging. This enchanting story not only teaches important lessons from history but also explores themes of friendship and courage. The bond between Pocket and Spaghetti, built on second chances, is a testament to the power of true friendship.
I sincerely hope we can look forward to more adventures with them at the museum.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pocket Bear by Katherine Applegate
📚 Middle Grade | 🐻 Releases September 9, 2025

I flew through Pocket Bear in just two days and absolutely loved it. Even though it’s middle grade and I’m in my 20s, this story pulled me in with its warmth, creativity, and heart.

This book gave me Toy Story vibes in the best way: stuffed animals that come alive when no one’s watching, but with more heart and history. Pocket was literally sewn during WWI to comfort soldiers, and now, over a century later, he’s helping forgotten toys find new homes at the Second Chances shop.

It’s imaginative, emotional, and filled with kindness. If you’re soft for stories about bravery, friendship, and second chances this one’s worth reading, no matter your age.

Thank you to Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley for the ARC

All opinions are my own In exchange for a honest review

Katherine Applegate does it again! Her stories are simply magical and draw the reader in from the first paragraphs. I also always learn something from her books. I did not know about “mascot bears” before reading Pocket Bear nor did I know about the first bears created in Germany and their disappearance at sea. This would make the most lovely read aloud for families or teachers and allow for conversations to be held on the topics of kindness, empathy, the effects of war, and caring for people and things.

Pocket Bear is a sweet story about love, belonging, and second chances. Katherine Applegate does a wonderful job of weaving the past and present together. The story revolves around a tiny stuffed bear once carried by a WWI soldier, who is now living in a house full of forgotten/lost toys, a kleptomaniac cat, and a mother and daughter rebuilding their lives as survivors of war.

This story is full of compassion and sacrifice with just the right amount of humor.

Applegate has a knack for heartwarming. She's done an amazing job with otters, gorillas, trees, dogs, mice, and probably some other critters I've forgotten. This time it's the cat's turn! I will admit that I am not much of a cat person, although I like them fine. Even with that, Zephyrina is a wonderful character, who is exactly the sort of narrator I would expect from a cat. It's the sort of story that I would completely see being animated like An American Tail, Land Before Time or FernGully. It just has that epic but not ridiculous late 80s-90s vibe.

Fantastic one. Did you know about pocket bears that soldiers carried during WWI? We didn't. This is one of my auto reads/ authors, and she never disappoints. With a combination of always relevant and interesting research plus always amazing characters, we know that we are in for an emotional journey. The end was powerful with them together: two unlikely bears.
Thief cat (super awesome) rescues lost toys, and the humans in Second Chances make them adoptable again. There are so many layers and can be explored in the classroom with a multitude of themes from friendship to historical facts and the first teddy bears (stuffed animals) history. It's not too long, and it's easy to read.

Big voice and short chapters will make this a Swiss Army knife recommendation in the library, particularly for fans of animal stories.

Another hit out of the park book for Katherine Applegate. I love this story- I know kids are going to love it as well.

Pocket Bear by Katherine Applegate is the heartwarming story of a mother and her daughter who rescue unwanted toys and find them new homes. The main character is a tiny Pocket Bear, made for soldiers of World War 1 to carry into battle, and his attempts to save one of the original teddy bears manufactured in Germany. This story has good people, bad people and lots of fun loving toys and would be a great read for elementary aged children. As always, the author has concocted a great story while giving a bit of history of the world and toys of different eras.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 out of 5)

The characters in this enchanting tale are not only adorable but also remarkably realistic and well-developed, making them relatable and endearing to readers of all ages. Zephyrina, the charming cat, serves as our guide through the narrative, showcasing an impressive arc of character development that is often overlooked in stories featuring animal protagonists. Her journey is filled with moments that highlight her wisdom and understanding of the world around her, making her a pivotal figure in the storytelling process. Pocket, the titular bear, emerges as a strong little leader who embodies the virtues of kindness and the transformative power of giving hope and second chances to others. His character resonates with readers, illustrating how even the smallest among us can have a significant impact on the lives of those around them.

In contrast, the human characters, particularly Dasha and Victoria, provide valuable perspectives that enrich the narrative. Their differing views on the true value of a stuffed animal companion open up discussions about attachment, love, and the significance of these seemingly simple objects in our lives. The setting of the story is crafted with care, offering a simple yet detailed backdrop that feels both realistic and immersive. This careful world-building allows readers to fully engage with the story without overwhelming them, creating a perfect balance that enhances the plot.

The writing style is a delightful blend of realism, humor, and seriousness, effectively capturing the nuances of life while infusing the narrative with feelings of hope and a touch of magic. The author skillfully navigates through different emotional landscapes, providing moments of laughter alongside more poignant reflections, which keeps readers emotionally invested. The plot itself is interesting, informative, and captivating, weaving together various themes that resonate deeply. However, some readers may find their attention waning at times due to the medium pacing of the story. The dialogue, while engaging, is somewhat tailored towards an audience aged 8 and up, which may limit its appeal to younger or older readers. Additionally, the emphasis on emotion over action may leave some seeking a more dynamic storyline feeling slightly unsatisfied.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the plot is well-developed and rich in detail. One critique, however, is that certain characters do not face consequences for their actions, such as stealing and lying, which could have added depth to their arcs and reinforced the story's moral lessons. The author's note at the end of the book is a delightful addition, providing readers with insights into the inspiration behind the story and the real-life pocket bears and teddy bears that inspired the narrative. This note not only showcases the author's dedication to research and authenticity but also invites readers to appreciate the history and craftsmanship behind these beloved toys.

Furthermore, I found the biographies that Dasha wrote for each stuffed animal to be a particularly charming touch, adding layers to the characters and encouraging readers to connect more deeply with them. This creative exercise inspired me to create a biography for my own oldest stuffed animal, Cheeto. "Pocket Bear" by Katherine Applegate is more than just an illustrated story; it is a heartfelt exploration of the power of friendship, the importance of second chances, and the enduring hope that family and stuffed animals can bring into our lives. This narrative beautifully illustrates how even the simplest of companions can forge connections, brighten our days, and provide comfort in times of need.

The Pocket Bear is a beautiful story about friendship, courage, and discovering where you belong. Katherine Applegate delivers once again, with heartfelt writing and lovely illustrations that make this a new favorite!

This book was so heartwarming. It captured my attention so quick. I think this book is great for kids who aren’t big fans of reading because it’s so easy to get into and the chapters are short. Katherine Applegate’s writing is incredible. This book is told in the perspective of a cat who stumbles upon a teddy bear in the dumpster. She loves bringing toys back to his foster family as a thank you for feeding him. This book has a lot of charm and is about second chances. Definitely one to recommend.

This story was so moving and sweet. Katherine Applegate has such a gift for writing books that are both deeply emotional and quietly important. It felt quite a bit like Toy Story, but with a historical thread woven through, one that speaks to the lasting impact of war and the experiences people still live through today. And honestly, any story told from the perspective of a cat learning how to love and be loved is guaranteed to tug at my heartstrings. So many elements are woven together here to tell a beautiful story.

A sweetly saccharine story of stuffed animals that gives you the warmth from the first watch of Toy Story, the movie, the unlikely friendships from the [book:Orris and Timble: The Beginning:|195367863] books, and it's own story inserted about stuffies including Pocket's origin as a pocket bear for a soldier who meets another bear who had a different purpose of a person in Germany, and a cat who tells the story.

This is the kind of story expected from a great like Applegate providing empathy and warmth in inanimate objects like toys who have life experiences all their own to be cherished and heard.

The story of a tiny bear who longs for connection and belonging is both simple and profound. It gently introduces themes of loneliness, friendship, and hope—perfect for sparking meaningful conversations in the classroom or at home. I can't wait to share this with my students!

Katherine Applegate is the gold standard of children's literature, and this book is no different. I look forward to getting a physical copy to keep on our shelves to read many times over.

When a special bear is found in the trash by the resident "cat burglar" and brought to Second Chances, a place where old toys are given opportunity to bring new joy. Second Chances is a place where your past story does not have to be your future story. Zephyrina, the cat in question, is actually a huge part of this special place. There is a ranking of the toys and this cat is closest to the leader, a teddy bear, as well, but not the same kind of bear. The history of these two bears is told beautifully (and my teacher heart hopes it leads to researchers in my libraries). Readers will easily see how the toys can be fixed up from old wounds and find loving or more loving futures through this rescue. Readers will also see how the toys are already rescuing the humans in this home. Every story of love and warmth, safety and belonging, has to have an evil character. This one is smarmy and I am working on my voice as it will need to be perfect when I read this lovely book aloud to my classes this fall. I suspect it will be shared in many classes. The connections to history of wars and the history of bears are an easy grab for most elementary students. The shorter chapters with just enough cliffhanger ending each will make it perfect for reading aloud in class. My students across elementary will all find connections to this story. The need for family, support, overcoming obstacles, and bravery thread through the characters and the story well.

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me the pleasure of reading this book before the publication date.