Buster Bear

One morning, a big brown bear walked into the Green Forest. His name was Buster Bear. He was looking for a new home.

Little Joe Otter was playing in the Laughing Brook when he saw the big bear. 'There is a huge bear in the forest!' he cried. He swam away as fast as he could.

Little Joe found Peter Rabbit hopping nearby and told him the news. 'There is a huge bear in the forest!' said Little Joe. Peter's long ears shot straight up.

Peter Rabbit ran to tell every animal he could find. 'There is a huge bear in the forest!' he told each one. Everyone hid behind trees and bushes.

But Buster Bear did not know he had scared anyone. He sat by the Laughing Brook. He dipped his big paw in and pulled out a shiny fish.

Peter was curious, so he crept close to peek at Buster Bear. Buster Bear looked up. Peter squeaked, 'There is a huge bear in the forest!' and ran away.

Buster Bear chuckled a big, rumbling chuckle. He was not scary at all. He just wanted fish and honey and a quiet place to rest.

Then Buster Bear found a hollow tree full of bees. He reached in and scooped out a big pawful of golden honey.

That evening, all the little animals crept out to watch Buster Bear. He sat quietly under an oak tree, licking honey from his paw.

Little Joe Otter swam up to the bank and gave a little wave. Buster Bear smiled and waved back with his big, soft paw.

From that day on, Buster Bear was a good friend in the Green Forest. The animals were glad he had come.

That night, Buster Bear curled up under the stars and closed his eyes. The forest grew soft and still. A kind and gentle heart is always welcome.