Otis Knows

by Liz Garton Scanlon, Martha Brockenbrough, Stephanie Laberis (Illustrator)

Inspired by the life of a real Alaskan brown bear named Otis, who rose to internet stardom during Fat Bear Week, this heartwarming picture book invites young readers to celebrate their differences and embrace their individuality.

Otis sleeps his deep and heavy sleep.
He dreams his Otis dreams.
And he’ll wake when he’s ready, in his own way, in his own time.
Why?
Because Otis knows.

While other bears emerge from their dens on the first spring morning, Otis is still sleeping. While other bears chase slippery salmon through the water, Otis catches them from his own special spot by the river. While other bears play and tussle, Otis naps.

Why? Because Otis knows something we can all get the best way to be…is to be yourself, in your own time and in your own unique way.

Genres: Picture Books, Animals, Childrens

Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2026

About the author

Liz Garton Scanlon is the author of numerous beloved books for young people, including the highly-acclaimed, Caldecott-honored picture book All the World, illustrated by Marla Frazee, two novels for middle grade readers, and an upcoming chapter book series. Her many other picture books include the ones she's co-authored with Audrey Vernick, like Bob, Not Bob and World's Best Class Plant. Ms. Scanlon is also a poet, a teacher and a frequent & popular presenter at schools, libraries and conferences. She serves on the faculty of the Vermont College of Fine Arts and lives in Austin, Texas.

Reviews

[Grandma Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was fun and educational. Otis is one of the older brown bears. He’s learned it’s ok to do things in his own time and he loves to sleep. This story was delightful and hopeful. Also, it teaches a little about the habits of brown bears. Cute and memorable illustrations. Highly recommend.

I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

This charming picture book is based on a true story. It follows bears through their springtime activities, and it focuses on Otis, an older bear who follows his own rhythm and does things in his own time. The story shows that even though he isn't young and energetic anymore, his patience and perseverance pay off.

This book will appeal to families who follow Fat Bear Week online, since they will already be familiar with Otis. However, this isn't one of those insular Internet trend books where you have to be in the know to enjoy the story. The story stands on its own, and the author's note fills in the backstory.

The author's note shares more information about the real-life Otis and his Internet fame, but notes that he is no longer living. Parents of sensitive kids can decide whether or not to share this information. They should also know that some of the illustrations depict bears holding fish with bites taken out of them and bones sticking out.

Most books about hibernation focus on animals getting ready for winter. This one stands out because it shows what happens after, as bears emerge in the springtime and fill their empty bellies. This is a fun springtime story that has nice messages, and it will be great for families and classroom settings.

I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Shelly Grabe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Net Galley ARC- Personal Thoughts

We absolutely love Liz Scanlon! We’ve had the joy of knowing her for years, and it was such a treat to recently host her on The Adjacent Podcast. You can listen to that conversation here:
https://www.shodymedia.com/adjacent-p...

Otis Knows completely captured my heart. Having had the unique experience of living in Grand Teton National Park, this story felt especially personal and authentic. Liz beautifully brings to life the reality of living near bears—their rhythms, their presence, and the respect they command. This book will resonate deeply with those who have experienced that world firsthand, while also offering a fascinating and accessible window for readers who haven’t.

What I loved most about Otis is his quiet confidence—doing things his own way, unapologetically, and trusting his instincts. There’s something both empowering and comforting in that message, for readers of all ages.

Bravo, Liz—as always. We’re big fans and can’t wait to see what you do next.

[Chelsea Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Otis Knows (How to Be a Bear) is a soulful, rhythmic tribute to the legendary brown bear from Alaska’s Katmai National Park. Authors Liz Garton Scanlon and Martha Brockenbrough have crafted a story that is as much about self-acceptance as it is about nature.

Why it’s a 5-Star standout:

The "Otis" Philosophy: While younger bears are "faster" and "stronger," Otis thrives by doing things in his own time. It’s a powerful lesson for kids (and adults) about the value of patience and being yourself.

Stunning Animation-Style Art: Stephanie Laberis’s digital illustrations are vibrant and humorous, perfectly capturing Otis as a "rakish, rumpled, and wise" elder statesman of the river.

Educational Depth: The book cleverly weaves in real facts about hibernation and salmon runs, grounded in the viral sensation of Fat Bear Week.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Otis the bear is a bit...unique. While the other bears are eager to reemerge from hibernation in the spring, Otis keeps on snoozing. While the other bears are chasing the salmon with the energy and eagerness of youth, Otis just sits and lets the fish come to him. Although he may not be exactly like the other bears, Otis knows how to be a bear in his own, beautiful way.

This true story (I was so happy to discover!) of Otis, an old, fat teddy bear of a brown bear in Alaska, makes for a truly memorable book, along with some help from the beautiful illustrations. I love the combination of teaching kids about hibernation and bears' activities while also conveying a wonderful message about doing things in your own time and in your own way.

Long live Otis, an icon of chill. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a touching and well-done story! Even as an adult I thought it was enjoyable. There was a bit of silliness to it which I always seek out in children's lit, but it is also based on real information that can lead to discussions with children about topics like bears, seasons, hibernation, etc. And it was based on a true story, which is discussed on the final pages. In addition, the illustrations were gorgeous. I found myself staring at the pages and admiring the work that was put into it.
I would recommend this book for children as young as 3 but it would be great for children approx 5 too if you're wanting to discuss some of the themes a bit more deeply.

Thank you so much, Simon and Schuster Childrens Publishing and Beach Lane Books, for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Aliceson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is based on an actual bear in Katmai National park in Alaska. Otis likes to do things in his own way and in his own time. The author combines facts about hibernation and how bears emerge from there dens with adorable pictures and questions about Otis. The illustrations are vibrant and colorful. I can see kids giggling over the pictures of Otis. We tend to shy away from the use of the word fat, so I like that the author includes why bears need to eat and get fat (they use their fat supplies to survive the winter.) I enjoyed the facts at the end of the book that told more about the bears and hibernation. Perfect for inquisitive kiddos who have questions.

This would be a great book to read during Bear Week to Y5-1st graders, or during a unit on animals.

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy.

[Lizzie Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this book. It is SO well done on every level–the text, the art, and quality of the materials. Authors Scanlon & Brockenbrough deliver a story that not only educates, but fascinates–and tickles a sweet connection to dear Otis. I love learning about bears. From habitat to hibernation, I now understand so much more about these incredible creatures. Also, I LOVE that Otis does things his own way. This made me feel quite kindred to him. Kids and adults will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it for homes, schools, and libraries!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!

Ahhhh I love Otis :) I loved this book about bears, hibernation, and doing things your own way on your own time. Such a great reminder. I also enjoyed about this book aims to educate about hibernation and what bears are up to when they're out and about. The art in this book was really cute and attention grabbing too. I would definitely reread this with my baby boy!

[Britney Ireland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you #NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC read of this children’s book in return for my honest review and opinion.

Cute story about bears hibernating and waking up in spring time. Teaching aspects for little ones are great.

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Otis takes his time emerging from his den, but when he finally does, he eagerly eats and rapidly gains weight. Otis does things his own way, and that's okay.

Otis Knows is a great way to learn about hibernation and winter and bears. The story is based on a real bear in Alaska.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the other bears awake in spring, Otis continues to sleep. He dozes and dozes. But finally, he awakes and eats, and eats, and naps, and eats some more. He gains the weight he needs to survive the next winter. This is based on a real bear. The illustrations are wonderful!

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book about living life at the pace you want to.
Otis is a bear who knows how to be a bear, even if he does things differently than the younger bears around him.