Happy November, readers!
Something mega-exciting is happening. Drum roll please 🥁 ….
THIS IS NOT A SLEEPY BEAR BOOK by Brian Gehrlein hits shelves on NOVEMBER 11th! That’s like… so soon!

I recently got to read an advance copy (lucky duck, I know)—and seeing the joy on my kids’ faces was everything. They laughed, pointed out details in the art, shouted along with the writing, and immediately requested, “MORE!” 2/3 Mango kids wanted to share with you just how much they loved it…the other wasn’t in the mood to be on camera (but still loved reading the book)!
This book is playful and big-hearted in that “instant classic read-aloud” kind of way. I mean, just look at these fun spreads:


And for me personally? It’s a reminder that this journey is real. The work matters. The community matters. The cheering-each-other-on matters. Brian is one of the kindest humans in this community, he’s constantly giving back and showering writers in the querying trenches with his wisdom of all things humor and kidlit. Cheering him on with this huge book launch feels like cheering on all of us.
Brian, I’m so thrilled for you!
Book world…get ready.
This bear is very awake. 🐻✨
Or, maybe not…? WHOOO knows? 🦉 😉
Grab the book and see whether hibernation (and Bear’s trusted schedule-following friend Owl) ever truly wins.
Pre-order your copy today:

