Dasher and the Polar Bear

By Author / Illustrator

Matt Tavares

Genre

Seasonal

Age range(s)

Publisher

Walker Books

ISBN

9781529528824

Format

Hardback

Published

25-09-2025

Synopsis

In this sparkling new Christmas story, Matt Tavares is back to remind us that sometimes the best gift we can receive is simply to bear witness to wonder - and that not all presents fit inside Santa's bag.

One bright night just before Christmas, Dasher the reindeer is out admiring the stunning colours of the northern lights when she meets George, a sweet polar bear. Astounded to see that Dasher can fly, George confides that he has dreamed of soaring through the sky himself. Dasher would like nothing more than to bestow some Christmas magic on her new friend, but their flying lesson turns out to be a disappointing failure. Even Dasher, an intrepid reindeer in the habit of giving - not giving up - begins to wonder if anyone can make George's dream take flight.

Also in the series: Dasher (book 1); Dasher Can't Wait for Christmas (book 2)

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Reviews

Maria

Dasher and the Polar Bear is the perfect story to share with young children because it is full of Christmas magic and friendship with the most beautiful pictures that make the reader feel they are in the North Pole.

Dasher is one of Santa's special helpers who loves to watch the magical colours of the northern lights because they remind her of Christmas lights! One day as she is admiring the lights, she comes face to face with a huge polar bear called George. George is intrigued by Dasher, who can fly; he longs to fly and kind Dasher begins to teach him. However, George realises that with four paws, he cannot fly. On Christmas Eve Santa calls Dasher to help him visit all the children over the world. On their way back they see George; can Santa help make his dream come true?

Dasher and the Polar Bear shows children the importance of friends and being kind. Although George can't fly, Dasher tries to help him and is never unkind. George is not jealous of Dasher but thinks her flying skills are remarkable! This book is a great way of exploring feelings and relationships and the joy of being kind.

In the classroom, young children will love this magical story which can be used to link to Geography, learning about the North Pole and the northern lights, as well as exploring the beautiful language in the text, too.

Picture book / Reviewed by Maria, teacher