Discover the Thrilling Tale of I Thought I Heard an Angry Bear by Parina Davis-Usher

Author Parina Davis-Usher is an art therapist, former teacher and a parent of 3 with over 25 years of experience. She has watched children’s imaginary worlds come to life in many ways. Children’s books are the perfect way to spark imagination, creativity, and curiosity in the minds of young readers. That’s why today, we’re excited to discuss I Thought I Heard an Angry Bear, a thrilling and fantastical children’s book.

Tell us about your book!

I Thought I Heard an Angry Bear is about a little boy who thinks his house is being invaded by a creature. His imagination leads him to believe a bear has entered his home, making him the bear’s prey. In the end he realizes it was all in his mind.

What is the PRIMARY benefit, above all others, that your potential reader will gain from reading this book?

The primary benefit of reading my book is to help young readers overcome their fears while enjoying a fun, creepy, but whimsical adventure. I think overcoming fear(s) is something that resonates with everyone, whether it’s a creature in the house or not achieving a goal, we all have fears in one way or another.

If you had to compare this book to any other book out there, which book would it be?

I would compare my book to one of my favorite stories The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin. With both book settings being spooky in nature, both are about overcoming situations that could alter one’s appreciation and love for themselves in turn hindering one becoming a better version of themselves. Spookley had other pumpkins getting inside his head, making him think he was less than. The little boy in my book allowed fear to enter his thoughts, preventing him from deciphering reality and imagination.

Hundreds of thousands of books come out every year. Why should someone buy THIS book?

What sets my book apart from the rest it that my book is a spooky read with a fun, loving twist at the end. My book takes readers on a haunting journey of thrilling self-discovery.

Who is your target audience?

My target audience is children ages 4-8, but I like to say my book is for everyone, young and old. I believe a person can learn lessons from anyone and anywhere. The topic of working through and overcoming fear is universal and can be helpful at any age. I still have favorite children’s books that I’ve read as a child, read to my children, and use as references today when I’m teaching art or conducting art therapy with clients. So, I Thought I Heard an Angry Bear is for young people who are just starting life and those who are young at heart.

Did your environment or upbringing play a major role in your writing, and did you use it to your advantage?

I would say my upbringing had a lot to do with the storyline. Just like most people, I’ve struggled with overcoming fears throughout my life. I don’t think anyone is immune to fear. Fear can be debilitating, sometimes paralyzing, controlling one’s whole existence. That’s why this story is so important.

Tell us about your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?

My most rewarding experience since publishing my book is hearing people’s reactions to the story. Hearing parents say their child(ren) can’t go to sleep without them reading the book every night; or my book is their child’s/children’s favorite book. I guess that was more than one!

How would you describe your writing style?

I would say my writing style is free form. I like the freedom to create, whether it’s stories, a poem, or art; I create from the heart. Most of my work has a message and/or a theme of helping behind it.

Are your characters pure fiction, or did you draw from people you know?

I drew my inspiration from something I used to say to my middle son when he was younger. When his stomach growled, I would ask, “Is the bear hungry?” or say, “The bear is hungry!” That was the start of it all. My son’s likeness was actually used as the main character of the book.

Are you more of a character artist or a plot-driven writer?

It really depends on what I’m writing. Sometimes the development of the character is most important because you want the character seen a certain way. However, other times plot development may be more important to the story. A lot of times I’ll get an idea late at night or early in the morning and must write it down so I won’t forget. My ideas come to me in different ways. So, whatever way it comes to me that’s how I write it down, whether it’s character first or plot first.

What do you hope to accomplish with your book other than selling it?

Of course, I would love to have my book in every child’s hand across the world. That’s a given! But seriously, I hope people really enjoy reading my book. Most of all, I hope it starts a conversation about overcoming fear and not letting it stop children from becoming wonderful, beautiful adults. I always say, if I can help at least 2 people, not just 1! I’ve done my job.