'The Bear’s journey is delightful and the love between Ava and her grandfather is touching…a kid’s book for adults…with an emphasis on keeping a grateful heart.' – Kirkus Reviews

Ava's Grateful Bears

The inspiration to write the true story of Ava’s Grateful Bears came about on a secluded beach in Nosara, Costa Rica. A wedding was taking place and one of the guests was Jerry Garcia. In Spirit. Over the next year, through a series of very serendipitous events, I became friends with Wendy Weir. Wendy had previously written two children’s books with her brother Bob. Bob Weir is a founding member of the rock group, The Grateful Dead. When I shared the story with Wendy, I asked if she would be interested in creating the illustrations. She was too busy at the time and suggested I contact the University of California, Santa Cruz to see if an art student would be interested in the project. UCSC is home to the Grateful Dead archives as well as a major exhibit showcasing both their music and art.

My wife, Laurie, suggested a contest for all UCSC art majors to have an opportunity to illustrate “Ava’s Grateful Bears.” Over 50 students applied for the project by forwarding their artwork to us. When we narrowed it to five, I drove to UCSC to interview the lucky artists. Maggie High was the chosen student. Her interpretations of the Grateful Bears were exactly what I had envisioned. She captured their spirit, playfulness and warmth perfectly. As for Ava, Maggie has created a caricature of my granddaughter that will be treasured for generations to come.

Douglas Bratt, aka Ava’s Grandpa

With over 100 solid 5-star reviews on Amazon and over 50,000 followers on Facebook, “Ava’s Grateful Bears,” continues to touch the hearts of children, parents and grandparents across the country and around the world. A simple story of a grandfather looking for connection with his granddaughter, via a box of over 100 stuffed bears. One recent review compared the story to The Velveteen Rabbit …times 100! Celebrities, rock stars and counter culture icons all agree: “Ava’s Grateful Bears,” is a book worth reading to those little ones you love…or just to open your own adult heart.

Have a Grateful Journey-
With “Ava’s Grateful Bears”

Purchase an Autographed Copy of Ava’s Grateful Bears here. Also available at Amazon.

What Folks Are Saying About Ava’s Grateful Bears