The Grizzlies of Grouse Mountain

Written by Shelley Hrdlitschka and Rae Schidlo
Illustrated by Linda Sharp

This beautifully illustrated children’s book tells the remarkable story of two orphaned grizzly bears who were saved and brought to Grouse Mountain as cubs, where they now live in a protected wildlife refuge and serve as unofficial ambassadors for their species.

Coola and Grinder are two adult grizzly bears living at the “peak of Vancouver” on Grouse Mountain. For the past eighteen years they have been among the mountain’s biggest attractions. People from all over the world flock to see these magnificent creatures, who live in a five-acre wildlife refuge that simulates a grizzly bear’s natural habitat. Contrary to popular belief, the bears are not brothers; they were brought to the mountain as orphaned cubs born on opposite sides of the province—Coola hails from Bella Coola, and Grinder (named after the Grouse Grind hiking trail) was born near Invermere.

The Grizzlies of Grouse Mountain tells the heartwarming and inspiring tale of Coola and Grinder’s life on the mountain, their distinct personalities, and their important role in teaching wildlife rangers and scientists about grizzly bear behaviour. Written for young school-age children, this book presents facts and entertaining anecdotes about the bears in a clear and engaging way, and imparts valuable lessons about the importance of wildlife conservation. This richly illustrated book will foster children’s love of wildlife for years to come.

Available April 16, 2019

Heritage House 2019

Reviews:

“Through this inspiring story, we have a rare opportunity to learn more about the orphaned grizzly bears of Grouse Mountain and to develop a deeper understanding of their life and habits. Readers can see the value of protecting this magnificent species and the importance of conserving wilderness habitat for bears. Rich illustrations and a touching narrative make this book a wonderful resource for any young reader.” (Deborah Hodge, author of West Coast Wild)

“The remarkable lives of these two gentle giants are superbly described by the authors, while the beautiful illustrations perfectly capture the bears’ myriad facial expressions. Grinder and Coola have taught thousands of people that, despite some obvious differences, they really are a lot like us.” (Dr. Ken Macquisten, D.V.M. Managing Director/Veterinarian, Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife)

The story is clearly and touchingly presented, enhancing knowledge about the lives of these fascinating animals. Large rich illustrations are striking and appealing, capturing the distinctive features of each bear, complete with winsome eyes and expressions. This is an excellent introduction to the lives of grizzly bears that will provoke enthusiastic discussion. (Canadian Children’s Booknews)

* Starred review in The Canadian Children’s Book Centre’s BEST BOOKS Guide for kids & Teens 2019

This lucky girl is wearing one of Grinder’s claws around her neck.