Carlin is afraid of everything, even his own shadow.One day his friend Zack brought him to Big Bear to get some bravery. When they got there he told Carlin to go into the Forbidden Forest to Skulk Mountain to get a box with the secret ingredient from the cave. Carlin went and in the end the box ended up empty, which made Carlin sad. Then Big Bear told Carlin that it isn't what's inside the box that gave him bravery, it was his journey. ( )

This picture book tells the tale of a raccoon named Carlin who is afraid of everything. At the insistence of his animal friends, goes on a quest to get a special ingredient for bear's Bravery Soup from a monster's cave. His journey teaches him that he can face his fears, and that bravery comes from within, and not from without. This simple but well-written story is brought to life by the bright paintings that capture the action and the characters perfectly. A great story to inspire kids ages 3-6 to face their own fears. Also great for reading aloud! ( )

About bravery; believing in yourself. Could be good for younger kids when a new situation is coming up! ( )

Great book. The bear was clever when he tried to teach the racoon a lesson.