Chubby the Bear's Big Choice

By Daryl McCullough and Maryanne Smith

Chubby the Bear enjoys eating honey and swinging on the branches of redwood trees high above the forest floor. When bear-cub bullies tease and shame him about his weight, Chubby wrestles with how to respond. Two of his forest friends – a raccoon and a beaver – encourage him to embrace his differences, which might even be his strengths. Chubby takes matters into his own paws and delivers an unforgettable message to his bullies. He makes a big choice to stand up for himself and demonstrate his courage and skills. In doing so, he finds his confidence and ability to love himself and his body. Ultimately, Chubby the Bear also earns the respect and attention of the other bear cubs, who see things differently in the end.
Chubby the Bear’s Big Choice is a picture book with messages for children and adults, especially those struggling with bullying, body image, weight, or self-esteem issues. Chubby teaches to trust in ourselves and celebrate our individuality, which is a true gift! Readers of all ages will enjoy its sumptuous illustrations that bring the imagination to life in all of nature’s beauty.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Archway Publishing
• Release date: Oct 15, 2023
• ISBN: 9781665749657

Daryl McCullough

Daryl R. McCullough is a writer, actor, and marketing communications consultant who lives in Los Angeles with his husband, George, and their dog Ferdinand. His first book is “The Story of Tree and Cloud,” an award-winning allegorical picture book for both children and adults about the nature of life, friendship, death, and grief. Maryanne Smith is an award-winning painter and illustrator from Pennsylvania. She has painted nature’s beauty for much of her career while working commercially, creating world-renown wallpaper designs. At age 80, Maryanne continues to share her talents and beautiful artwork with patrons nationwide. She is Daryl’s aunt and is the illustrator of their first book: “The Story of Tree and Cloud.”

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