How to Draw a Teddy Bear (Step by Step Tutorial)

I have a special book to share with you today. Bear and Fred is a heartfelt true story about a young Jewish boy who went into hiding during World War II. I’m thrilled to partner with Amazon Crossing to bring you this blog post and a step-by-step tutorial on how to draw a teddy bear to celebrate special toys like Bear.

Bear and Fred is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. It’s told from a toy bear’s point of view. He has a boy named Fred whom he loves very much. When Fred’s family flees their home one night, Fred takes only a few possessions with him — including Bear. Throughout the war, Fred and Bear hide in different homes, first with Grandpa, then with a woman they don’t know. Even though Fred is frightened, Bear is always by his side. They help each other through the scary times and the good times until they reunite with their family again.

Interior art © Avi Ofer. Used with permission.

While this story was originally written in Hebrew and translated to English, nothing is lost. The writing is simple, heartfelt, and poignant. Bear and Fred is a special story and I’m so glad I had the chance to read it. The author managed to deliver the terrifying reality of being a Jewish child during World War II through a gentle story that children can understand and appreciate. I also loved that she sought out Fred and asked his permission before writing the story. She included an author’s note at the end of the book that explains how she discovered Fred’s story, met Bear, and wrote the book.

Interior art © Avi Ofer. Used with permission.

If you’re looking for true stories or picture books about World War II, you need a copy of this book on your shelf. The text is simple, detailed, and affecting. Because it’s a long book and the only picture book I’ve ever read with a prologue and an epilogue, I’d say it’s best for kids ages 6-8. I highly recommend this amazing picture book!

Keep scrolling to learn how to draw your own teddy bear!

About the Book

Bear and Fred by Iris Argaman, illustrated by Avi Ofer, translated by Annette Appel

The true story of a Jewish boy in hiding during World War II, as told by his teddy bear.

I felt Fred’s small hand grab me.
He patted me and whispered,
“Bear, I won’t leave you here all by yourself.
You are my best friend.”

Based on true events and beautifully illustrated, this is the story of a friendship that will last forever—told by Fred’s best friend, his beloved teddy bear.

During World War II, Fred must leave his home and live in hiding, apart from the rest of his family, but he always keeps Bear by his side. Bear knows it’s his job to take care of Fred and make sure he doesn’t feel alone.

After the war, Fred and his family are reunited and leave Holland for the United States. And still Bear is with him. When Fred grows up, he and Bear part for the first time when Bear is sent to Yad Vashem—the World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Israel, where this book was first published—to show the power of hope, friendship, and love.

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How to Draw a Teddy Bear (Step by Step)

Draw your own loveable teddy bear with this step-by-step tutorial! To celebrate Bear and Fred and their amazing story, what could be better than drawing your own teddy bear? Teddy bears are super easy to draw. As you can see, it only requires a few simple steps. So bust out those art supplies and get drawing!