Hot Foot Teddy: The True Story of Smokey Bear

by Sue Houser

Written for children and adults alike, Hot Foot Teddy contains the true history of Smokey Bear. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Smokey Bear Forest Fire Prevention Program. Photographs, illustrations and antique images of Smokey Bear are included.

Genres: Nonfiction

40 pages, Hardcover

First published April 2, 2007

Reviews

[Melanie Dulaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Smokey Bear is not just a symbol of fire prevention, he was a real live bear with quite a story. In May of 1950, Capitan Mountains were on fire and firefighters discovered a burned and alone black bear cub. Author Sue Houser tells of its rescue, recovery and position as the live model for the Smokey Bear-Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires program. I found this book at the Smokey Bear Historical Park in Capitan, New Mexico where this national icon is buried and enjoyed learning about Smokey. Houser includes many photographs of Smokey, his rescuers, handlers and posters that have been used in the “Only You” program over the years. Appendices are filled with additional information and a bibliography. The book may be independently published as the binding quality is not excellent and the font used is not one that would be considered easy to read by children. With backmatter, book length is only about 40 pages but the amount of text of the page means that is it not really a picture book, but younger children will absolutely enjoy hearing the story of a bear that they may know a bit about already and if they don’t, most children love a good animal rescue story. Recommended as a read aloud for grades 1-3 and independent reading for 3rd grade and up.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since Smokey's 80th birthday is coming up, I want to throw him a party. I decided to brush up on the story. Such an incredible story! But a few of the kids I polled, did not know who Smokey was. I hope to educate them.

[Devera C · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible story. Albeit a little wordy for a picture book. I learned so much from this and plan to read it again to my granddaughter in a couple of years.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

not the most well written book, but cute. the story was good and worth it just for the photos.