Explore the Wonders of Yellowstone with Bear Bottom (FunJungle #7)
As a long-time fan of Stuart Gibbs, discovering Bear Bottom made my heart leap with joy! Having been hooked since the vibrant world of Belly Up, I was thrilled to dive back into the FunJungle series again. This seventh installment introduces us to a captivating new setting at Yellowstone National Park and showcases Gibbs’s unique ability to blend education with adventure, making it a delightful read for both kids and the young at heart.
In Bear Bottom, we reunite with Teddy Fitzroy, one of my all-time favorite middle grade protagonists. His somewhat awkward yet sensitive personality shines through as he embarks on two intriguing cases: the mysterious disappearance of bison and the havoc caused by a grizzly bear—aptly dubbed Sasquatch—who crashes through the front door of their lodging. What makes Teddy special is his intelligence and kindness; he genuinely cares about the animals and people around him, which makes solving mysteries all the more meaningful.
The dual mysteries woven throughout the narrative kept me on the edge of my seat. Gibbs crafts the plot with an engaging mixture of suspense and humane character development. The opening chaos offers a humorous touch but quickly transitions into Teddy’s thoughtful investigation of the missing buffalos, making the stakes feel real. It’s a clever balance that encourages readers to stay invested.
One of the standout features of Bear Bottom is the wealth of factual information seamlessly integrated into the story. I loved learning about the bison’s history and the cultural significance of Native American heritage. The thoughtful representation of these vital themes enriches the reading experience, allowing children to engage with the material in a meaningful way. Gibbs presents these facts in a way that ignites curiosity and appreciation for nature and history, a hallmark of his writing.
The pacing of the narrative is spot-on. Just when I thought I had a grasp on Teddy’s findings, the plot twisted in exciting directions, especially when Teddy solves the case of the missing necklace alongside the baffling buffalo conundrum. It brought a delightful satisfaction to see everything click into place.
A personal highlight was witnessing Teddy’s bravery during a tense cave landslide. The action and excitement amplified the story while truly showcasing Teddy’s growth as a character. It highlighted how he not only seeks to solve mysteries but also actively engages with the world around him, making it feel alive and urgent.
Overall, Bear Bottom earns a solid 5/5 from me. It’s a vibrant, educational adventure that I’m convinced will resonate with young readers and adults alike. If you’ve enjoyed previous entries in the FunJungle series—or any of Stuart Gibbs’s works, such as Spy School—this book is a must-read. It’s a perfect blend of fun, fact, and thoughtful storytelling that not only entertains but also sparks curiosity about the world.
With all this excitement and the historical depth, I can’t help but eagerly await what Stuart Gibbs has in store for us next. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy! 😊
Thanks to Stuart Gibbs and Simon & Schuster Publishing for the ARC! Your engaging worlds never cease to amaze me.
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