Otis Knows (How to Be a Bear)

By: Liz Garton Scanlon, Martha Brockenbrough

Published by Beach Lane Books, 2026-05-05

Inspired by the life of a real Alaskan brown bear named Otis, who rose to internet stardom during Fat Bear Week, this heartwarming picture book invites young readers to celebrate their differences and embrace their individuality. Otis sleeps his deep and heavy sleep. He dreams his Otis dreams. And he’ll wake when he’s ready, in his own way, in his own time. Why? Because Otis knows. While other bears emerge from their dens on the first spring morning, Otis is still sleeping. While other bears chase slippery salmon through the water, Otis catches them from his own special spot by the river. While other bears play and tussle, Otis naps. Why? Because Otis knows something we can all get behind: the best way to be…is to be yourself, in your own time and in your own unique way.