Caldecott Medal Winner

The Biggest Bear

by Lynd Ward

Summary

Johnny Orchard sets out to shoot a bear so his family barn will have a fine hide like the neighbors, but instead he brings home an orphaned cub. The cub grows enormous and raids farms across the valley, forcing Johnny to decide its fate. Ward renders the woods and the swelling bear in rich brown wash drawings full of warmth and gentle humor.

Historical Context & Significance

Lynd Ward was already celebrated for his wordless novels in woodcuts before he won the Caldecott for this story.