Gozzle
By Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie
A lost egg hatches into a surprising family—but can Gozzle become Bear’s perfect little cub?
Pageticker community rating
Average score: 4.71
From 42 readers
What do our readers think of Gozzle? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)
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What does the Pageticker team say about Gozzle?
We love the warmth and gentle humour of this unusual family story, in which a bear and a gosling learn that belonging is built through love and care rather than appearance. Sara Ogilvie’s expressive illustrations bring Bear and Gozzle’s growing bond to life, while the changing seasons add a satisfying sense of time and discovery. It is especially well suited to shared reading with children aged 2–6.
Genres
What is Gozzle about?
In springtime, Bear awakens to find a lost egg outside his cave. Instead of breakfast, he gains a new companion when Gozzle, a charming gosling, hatches and believes Bear is her daddy. Determined to emulate Bear, Gozzle tries climbing trees, digging, and even developing a taste for honey. This delightful picture book follows their journey from strangers to family, exploring themes of belonging and love.
About the author
Julia Donaldson is a much-loved British author who has written many wonderful books for children. She is best known for creating 'The Gruffalo', a story about a clever mouse and a magical creature. Julia often works with illustrator Axel Scheffler to bring her fun and imaginative stories to life.
Discussion ideas around Gozzle
What makes a family?: Bear and Gozzle look very different, so what helps them become a family?
Learning who you are: Why does Gozzle try to climb, dig and eat honey like Bear, and what helps her understand herself better?
Home and belonging: What does home seem to mean to Bear and Gozzle, and where do you feel most at home?
Growing and changing: How do the changing seasons affect Bear and Gozzle’s lives and their relationship?
Caring for others: Bear does not expect to become a parent, so what can the story teach us about looking after someone new?
Pages
48 pages
Reading age
Picture Book (2-7)
This edition
2025
First published
2025
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