Otto the Book Bear: questions to ask and activities to try
Otto lives in a book and loves being read, until his family moves away without him. Otto the Book Bear is a warm story about change, belonging, and the magic of books.
What age is it for? Otto the Book Bear is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Being left behind, and finding a new home.
Otto the Book Bear (Katie Cleminson)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Being left behind, and finding a new home
Read it before a library visit or a house move. Ask how Otto feels when he's left behind, and where your child thinks the best home for a book bear would be.
What it helps with
- Moving house and big changes
- Feeling left behind
- Finding a new place to belong
- Loving books and libraries
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Where did Otto live?”
- “What happened when the family moved?”
- “How did Otto feel?”
- “Where did he go to find a new home?”
- “Where did he end up?”
- “Where do you love reading?”
5-minute activities to try together
Book character
Choose a favourite book character and imagine what they get up to when nobody's looking.
Library adventure
Visit a library and look for the cosiest reading spot, like Otto.
Free printables: Otto the Book Bear worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Lulu Loves the Library (Anna McQuinn and Rosalind Beardshaw)
- Best for
- Loving books, and visiting the library
- Age
- 2-6
A New House for Mouse (Petr Horáček)
- Best for
- Looking for a place that fits, and noticing what changes
- Age
- 2-5
Luna Loves Library Day (Joseph Coelho and Fiona Lumbers)
- Best for
- Parents living apart, and special time with each of them
- Age
- 3-7
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.