Beady Bear

By Don Freeman

Copyright 1954

Beady Bear is the story of a wind-up stuffed toy who belongs to a boy who loves him very much. One day, his boy leaves on a trip with his family and doesn’t say when he’ll return. Beady Bear occupies his time by reading an alphabet book. Reading leads him to the discovery that “B is for Bear – An animal brave who lives in a cave.” This is news to Beady! But if bears are supposed to live in caves, that is what Beady will have to do.

He found a cave, but it was very uncomfortable for sleeping, as the sharp stones dug into his back. The next day he brought a pillow, but somehow it still didn’t seem right. Days and nights went by, and Beady never seemed to settle in. Fortunately, his boy returned and discovered Beady in the cave. They realized just how much they need each other, and Beady returned home once again.

If only Beady had followed his heart and his instincts from the beginning. If only he knew not to be concerned about what someone said he was supposed to do, he would have saved a lot of discomfort and trouble. What do other bears do? That shouldn’t matter. What matters is what is right for Beady. I think he learned his lesson!