First published 2013 by Nosy Crow Ltd
The Crow’s Nest, 10a Lant Street London SE1 1QR www.nosycrow.com
ISBN 978 0 85763 364 4
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Bear and Hare were best of friends. They both lived in the wood. They walked and talked and played and sang –the way that best friends should.
But, one day, when the wind blew cold, Bear stopped and sniffed the air.
“The snow is on its way,” he said. “The winter’s coming, Hare.”
Hare sighed. He knew what winter meant –his friend would sleep till spring. And, curled up in a cave, he’d miss the joy that Christmas brings.
For Christmas was a special time that Bear would never see.
No fun, no games, no joy to share, no singing round the tree.
“Oh, Bear,” said Hare. “Why must you go? Whatever will I do?
This Christmas, can’t you stay awake, and see the winter through?”
Bear looked at Hare and gently smiled.
“I wish I could,” he said.
“But when it snows and chill winds blow, a bear must be in bed.”
Just as he spoke, a snowflake fell, and landed on his nose.
“It’s time to sleep,” Bear sighed. “The year is drawing to a close.”