Are There Bears Here?

An introduction to the wilderness experience for 8-10 year olds.

Soft cover, 

MSRP: $9.95 - SOLD OUT 3/24/2022

 What if I get lost? Or see a Mountain Lion? Join Jeffrey on his first trip to the forest where he discovers joy, beauty...and unexpected adventure! This informative book was written by Rick Sanger, a Backcountry Ranger, to introduce kids to wilderness ecology and safety. It takes place in the Mt. San Jacinto State Wilderness area located in southern California. The area is reached via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This engaging story is perfect for 6 to 11 year olds. Filled with original pen and ink drawings by Carol Russell 

 The ranger was straightening books on the counter when Jeffrey came bursting in through the door. "Howdy!" the ranger said. "Are your parents lost?"
Jeffrey wasn't quite sure what the ranger meant.
"No..." he said.
"Are you lost?" the ranger asked.
Jeffrey knew he wasn't lost. "No!"
"Then, I'm the one who must be lost. Think you can help me find my way home?" The ranger was being very silly, and Jeffrey laughed.
"No!!" Jeffrey said. "Well, guess it's time to hug a tree!" The ranger put his arms straight out and pressed his chest against the wall like he was hugging a huge tree.
"What are you doing?" Jeffrey asked.
"Well," the ranger explained, "if I ever get lost, I know I'm supposed to hug a tree. That makes it easier for the other rangers to find me. If I just wandered around, they might pass me without even knowing it. And besides, hugging a tree always makes me feel better, whether I'm lost or not."

Emmy reached up to the edge of the counter to try and see the ranger, but could only see the top of his hat. In a tiny voice, she asked,
"Ahh deah beahs heah?"
The ranger leaned forward to see her, and answered with a little poem:

"No need to fear,
there's no bears here.
So we'd best take care,
of the bears elsewhere!"

Emmy watched the ranger's mouth as he recited the poem, and smiled.

Appearing at the end of the story, this section presents many interesting facts about bears and other animals in a humorous dialogue between the ranger and a typical park visitor