Alfie Bear has a new brother and sister, and he desperately wants to play with them. But mother bear says he must be gentle - no rough-and-tumble. She suggests that he bring something to soothe them, but he doesn't quite understand. His gifts - two stones to bang together like thunder, a huge fish to eat, a branch of catkins, and a skunk(!) - are not appreciated by mum, and Alfie is sad. A big hug from mum helps, and when the babies are seen to be looking at him, mum says they know what they like best. The pictures, full of North American details of mountains, wild flowers, and clear lakes are quite beautiful, and the cuddly bears make a reassuring family. A smashing book.