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Dogs vs Bears
Fourth-grader Austin Davis introduces a new way for kids to learn about diversity, appreciating differences, and teamwork. Austin’s never known the truth—that his stuffed animals come to life whenever he leaves the house! Every time he goes to school, his bedroom becomes a brutal scene of battling teddy bears and stuffed dogs. Minion, leader of the bears, fights fiercely against Woof Woof, the dogs’ commander, over who will reign supreme. But after years of fighting, the bears and dogs discover a new threat. Will they be wiped out by an invading species, or can these two groups put aside their differences and face it together? The future of the fortress—and Austin’s realm—depends upon it!
52 pages, Paperback
Published May 28, 2024
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15571 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 29, 2024
Dogs vs. Bears is a charming book written by a young Austin Davis. Its theme is coming together despite our differences. The dogs and bears have an ongoing battle every day when Austin goes to school. But they must learn to get along and accept each other. Not only is the story well-written and important, but the art is adorable and gives a great sense of what the story is about. A super fun read especially for kids that teaches an important lesson. Recommended.
June 1, 2024
This is entertaining, engaging, and enlightening as well. One of my friends from my book club suggested this book, and I have thanked him more than once. Being a teacher, I feel there is a there is a lack of good entertaining books with lessons for kids of certain ages. But this book serves its purpose. It is not only bringing light humor, but the end of stories will teach you the significance of teamwork, integrity, and other moral values.
The author has drafted a new world of "Austin Davis," and anyone can be part of this world because of its surrealism and realism. I can connect with the story and characters as the experiences are relatable. This is a unique combination of kids fantasy and reality. The author's story-telling ability has made it more entertaining and engaging. I can definitely vouch for it.
You should definitely read this beautiful book.
The author has drafted a new world of "Austin Davis," and anyone can be part of this world because of its surrealism and realism. I can connect with the story and characters as the experiences are relatable. This is a unique combination of kids fantasy and reality. The author's story-telling ability has made it more entertaining and engaging. I can definitely vouch for it.
You should definitely read this beautiful book.
August 15, 2024
The story's strength is to captivate young readers with its engaging plot and vibrant characters while maintaining a nice flow of events. Austin Davis, the protagonist, is a perceptive fourth-grader who is unaware that his stuffed animals have supernatural abilities. Austin's bedroom becomes a battleground where plush animals and teddy bears compete to rule every day when he leaves for school. At the end of the read, the readers would certainly acquire valuable lessons in addition to having fun on Austin's excursions with his stuffed animals. The plots woven around the world of the stuffed animals provide excitement for the novel, and kids can identify with Austin's persona.
This serves as a unique combination of enjoyable combat and lessons on acceptance. It educates children about diversity, valuing individual differences, inclusion, cooperation, and empathy. I felt amazed to be part of this interestingly woven fantasy world where stories with meanings can be a good lead for entertainment. The glossy paper and vibrant colors are an attractive facet.
This serves as a unique combination of enjoyable combat and lessons on acceptance. It educates children about diversity, valuing individual differences, inclusion, cooperation, and empathy. I felt amazed to be part of this interestingly woven fantasy world where stories with meanings can be a good lead for entertainment. The glossy paper and vibrant colors are an attractive facet.
November 20, 2024
For ages 4-8 (but as an adult, I loved it)
Austin has stuffed animals that come to life whenever he goes to school each day “…. whenever he would go to school a fierce
battle between bears and dogs raged on
all the way from his comfy bed to the East
Crayon regions.” This was page one and the East Crayon region statement cracked me up and I was fully engaged. As Minion and Woof Woof team up to keep hold of their bedroom territory, kids can learn the importance of forming alliances and how teamwork can create success.
Book has laser shooting with a little “pew pew” action which I actually found to be engaging, especially if I were reading this to kids. No stuffed animals suffered in the story. It would be a great book to be read out loud or given to a young reader for Christmas, Hanukkah or whenever!
Austin has stuffed animals that come to life whenever he goes to school each day “…. whenever he would go to school a fierce
battle between bears and dogs raged on
all the way from his comfy bed to the East
Crayon regions.” This was page one and the East Crayon region statement cracked me up and I was fully engaged. As Minion and Woof Woof team up to keep hold of their bedroom territory, kids can learn the importance of forming alliances and how teamwork can create success.
Book has laser shooting with a little “pew pew” action which I actually found to be engaging, especially if I were reading this to kids. No stuffed animals suffered in the story. It would be a great book to be read out loud or given to a young reader for Christmas, Hanukkah or whenever!
December 13, 2024
This beautiful story shows how even enemies can become allies when they have an enemy in common. In this book, plushies of dogs and bears always fight to show who's the strongest, until they meet an alien toy that wants to steal their owner's bed. It was a very fun read!
September 30, 2024
This really is such a cute storyline. I must say at one point I felt like it was going ro teach children that the enemy of my enemy is my friend but thank God it wasn't that way lmao. I adored the illustrations so much and the message of the story is so important to be given to children- I loved it.
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May 20, 2024In Dogs Versus Bears by Austin Davis we meet a group of toys that whole grudges the dogs don’t like the Bears and the Bears don’t like the dogs The animals would battle all the way from his comfy bed to the crayon region of his room with no end in sight but when a knew threat wants to take over Austin‘s room they’ll have to ban together to keep his room safe not only for them but for Austin as well. This was such an adorable children’s book and my granddaughter Penny loves books with any type of talking animal and she absolutely loved this one, she even loved the enemy they were fighting against or should I say especially the enemy they were fighting against. This was a true pleasure to read to my grandchild in while doing reviews she begged me to write one for this book so here it is a fabulous book a five star read according to Penny K. Please forgive any mistakes I am blind and dictate my reviews.
September 27, 2025
I received a review copy of this book from the author via Booktasters for which my thanks.
A book that celebrates friendship and teamwork, and shows how while sometimes these can be set off by impending danger, they can still be both positive and lasting, Dogs vs Bears (2024) by Austin Davis is aimed at younger audiences but can be appreciated by older readers as well.
A children’s tale with simple but charming artwork (in light, almost pastel shades), the story unfolds in young Austin’s bedroom where the toy dogs and bears, who started off restricted to their own quarters (the toybox and bed, respectively) develop an enmity resulting in battles which play out every day as young Austin goes to school—between the comfy bed and East Crayon region (this and the accompanying illustrations were especially cute)! Each group hates the other, believing they are far better, and even resorts to stealthy attacks under the cover of darkness. But all this changes one day when their shared domain comes within the sights of an outsider who poses a threat to both. Now they realise that they must defend their home against this common threat, and come together to do so. But even more importantly, they learn that this isn’t just about the two of them simply fighting the enemy but about working together to do this.
Dogs vs Bears has important lessons to teach its young readers and goes about doing so in a sweet and entertaining way where the kids can both enjoy the story and pick up what it has to teach: That it isn’t about one individual or one group being better than the other but about there being space for all where they can also get along; that being different isn’t about being better or worse, but simply, about being different; that friendship not only brings about a peaceful life for all, but can be more productive as well since together much more can be achieved! The only one minor suggestion that occurred to me was that perhaps it could have included the dogs using a skill special to them which could have worked with a skill special to the bears to defeat the enemy, thus more strongly driving home the teamwork message—each special in themselves but together even more so.
A book that I’m sure children will very much enjoy!
4.25 stars
A book that celebrates friendship and teamwork, and shows how while sometimes these can be set off by impending danger, they can still be both positive and lasting, Dogs vs Bears (2024) by Austin Davis is aimed at younger audiences but can be appreciated by older readers as well.
A children’s tale with simple but charming artwork (in light, almost pastel shades), the story unfolds in young Austin’s bedroom where the toy dogs and bears, who started off restricted to their own quarters (the toybox and bed, respectively) develop an enmity resulting in battles which play out every day as young Austin goes to school—between the comfy bed and East Crayon region (this and the accompanying illustrations were especially cute)! Each group hates the other, believing they are far better, and even resorts to stealthy attacks under the cover of darkness. But all this changes one day when their shared domain comes within the sights of an outsider who poses a threat to both. Now they realise that they must defend their home against this common threat, and come together to do so. But even more importantly, they learn that this isn’t just about the two of them simply fighting the enemy but about working together to do this.
Dogs vs Bears has important lessons to teach its young readers and goes about doing so in a sweet and entertaining way where the kids can both enjoy the story and pick up what it has to teach: That it isn’t about one individual or one group being better than the other but about there being space for all where they can also get along; that being different isn’t about being better or worse, but simply, about being different; that friendship not only brings about a peaceful life for all, but can be more productive as well since together much more can be achieved! The only one minor suggestion that occurred to me was that perhaps it could have included the dogs using a skill special to them which could have worked with a skill special to the bears to defeat the enemy, thus more strongly driving home the teamwork message—each special in themselves but together even more so.
A book that I’m sure children will very much enjoy!
4.25 stars
May 16, 2024
When choosing a book for a child, you want one that holds their attention, while teaching valuable life lessons. Dogs vs Bears by Austin Davis will not disappoint. The animals in young Austin’s bedroom have no quarrel until the Great Tea Party of 2018! Then the battles began, each group trying to best the other. One day a new enemy enters the picture. Will the dogs and bears learn to look beyond their differences and over past vengeance? Only by uniting will Austin’s bedroom be safe from the intruder.
There were several key takeaways from Dogs vs Bears by Austin Davis. First, you can always find a common ground with someone, or animal, that is different than you. It is important to work together to accomplish goals. And sharing isn’t determining one person is better than another. The bears and the dogs learned to share Austin’s room, while conquering a threat to Austin and the other toys. You will find the illustrations colorful and creative. This is a book that I would read to my own children as it can open doors to deeper conversations with a child about bullies and getting along with others.
There were several key takeaways from Dogs vs Bears by Austin Davis. First, you can always find a common ground with someone, or animal, that is different than you. It is important to work together to accomplish goals. And sharing isn’t determining one person is better than another. The bears and the dogs learned to share Austin’s room, while conquering a threat to Austin and the other toys. You will find the illustrations colorful and creative. This is a book that I would read to my own children as it can open doors to deeper conversations with a child about bullies and getting along with others.
December 27, 2024
As Dog's vs. Bears unfolds, the dogs and bears must learn that the only way to face this new threat is by working together. The lesson is clear: teamwork, communication, and a bit of understanding can turn enemies into allies. Through their cooperation, they manage to save the day and find a way to share their space—while learning the importance of respect and friendship.
The vibrant, lively illustrations add even more fun to the story, capturing the quirky personalities of the toy dogs, bears, and their unexpected alien guest. The art brings the adventure to life, enhancing the playful tone and drawing young readers into the action.
Dogs vs. Bears is a perfect choice for kids ages 6-9 who are learning about teamwork, diversity, and friendship. With its engaging characters, exciting alien twist, and valuable lessons about working together, this book will keep young readers entertained from start to finish.
An imaginative, exciting, and heartwarming adventure, Dogs vs. Bears is a must-read for any young reader, and it certainly earns 5 stars!
The vibrant, lively illustrations add even more fun to the story, capturing the quirky personalities of the toy dogs, bears, and their unexpected alien guest. The art brings the adventure to life, enhancing the playful tone and drawing young readers into the action.
Dogs vs. Bears is a perfect choice for kids ages 6-9 who are learning about teamwork, diversity, and friendship. With its engaging characters, exciting alien twist, and valuable lessons about working together, this book will keep young readers entertained from start to finish.
An imaginative, exciting, and heartwarming adventure, Dogs vs. Bears is a must-read for any young reader, and it certainly earns 5 stars!
March 6, 2025
I started reading this book in hope of the draw to be a good read for my friends child. I was so right that I did. The story of woof, woof and minion is incredible. This a battle between the dogs who are lead by the "battle harden leader" woof woof and the bears, who are lead by their "battle harden leader" minion. This is the struggle for who is right when it comes to Austins bedroom. Are the bears better than the dogs or are the dogs better than the bears. This is a beautiful drawn picture book. It is brought to life in vivid and bright colors, that really draw and keep the childs imagination. I would read this book to children during story time any day. The stories focus on overcoming ones differences and working together speaks volumes about how we as adults can learn from them. I love how simple but effective the story and characters are drawn and brought to life. I gave it a five out of five for this reason. I encourage all to pick up a copy for your children and/ or donate to a local school. I believe it's worth the time and energy.
October 22, 2025
Delightful tale to read with children. Brings a great lesson for young children 5-8 yrs
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 October 2025
Format: Paperback
Austin goes off to school utterly unaware that his bedroom is a raging battlefield once he has left. The Bears and Dogs, the stuffed ones on his bed, come to life to fight it out between them. Woof Woof is the leader for his team, while Minion is leading the Bears, both sides think the other lot are bad unsavoury characters fit to be thrown out.
Daily battles carry on but one day, Floppy the rabbit, brings them bad news. Oh! No! There is a new threat coming to destroy their domain.
Well this brings a dangerous alien who declares the room is NOT theirs anymore. Now see what happens. Who is going to save them? Woof Woof and Minion are attacked by the alien. They have to do something urgently.
Beautiful colour illustrations accompany the tale. Pleasure to not only read but it brings a valuable message to kids for life.The
United we Stand, Divided we Fall
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 October 2025
Format: Paperback
Austin goes off to school utterly unaware that his bedroom is a raging battlefield once he has left. The Bears and Dogs, the stuffed ones on his bed, come to life to fight it out between them. Woof Woof is the leader for his team, while Minion is leading the Bears, both sides think the other lot are bad unsavoury characters fit to be thrown out.
Daily battles carry on but one day, Floppy the rabbit, brings them bad news. Oh! No! There is a new threat coming to destroy their domain.
Well this brings a dangerous alien who declares the room is NOT theirs anymore. Now see what happens. Who is going to save them? Woof Woof and Minion are attacked by the alien. They have to do something urgently.
Beautiful colour illustrations accompany the tale. Pleasure to not only read but it brings a valuable message to kids for life.The
United we Stand, Divided we Fall
May 20, 2025
Dogs Vs Bears by Austin Davis is a beautifully illustrated,simply narrated delighful kids' book that would encourage little ones tompick up a book. This book imparts practical moral lessons in a charming way with simple words.
The beautiful colourful illustratons are catchy
A sweet book recommended for kids who are learning to reda plus also those who yet cannot read as it is so easy to listen to .
Thanks @booktasters for this lovely book
The beautiful colourful illustratons are catchy
A sweet book recommended for kids who are learning to reda plus also those who yet cannot read as it is so easy to listen to .
Thanks @booktasters for this lovely book
June 26, 2025
I always loved the children's books..
but is this children's book?
not really.
when Austin leaves the house his toys come to life.
dogs group and bears group.
they were like arch enemies.
but soon they have to face a new threat.
now what they will do?
join hands together or face it individually which leads to the possibility of wiping out their existence.
I loved how author deep down from this story teaches the elders to live and love together and united. loved it.
but is this children's book?
not really.
when Austin leaves the house his toys come to life.
dogs group and bears group.
they were like arch enemies.
but soon they have to face a new threat.
now what they will do?
join hands together or face it individually which leads to the possibility of wiping out their existence.
I loved how author deep down from this story teaches the elders to live and love together and united. loved it.
July 16, 2025
Dogs vs Bears
This reminded me of playing pretend with my younger sister when we were small! The strange and wonderful stories we would make up and collaborate on as young girls were the stuff of legends!
Dogs vs Bears has a limited plot but some of the cutest art I’ve seen in a children’s book in ages. It reminded me a lot of Where the Wild things are by Maurice Sendak. In the ways that the art involved tells the majority of the story.
This reminded me of playing pretend with my younger sister when we were small! The strange and wonderful stories we would make up and collaborate on as young girls were the stuff of legends!
Dogs vs Bears has a limited plot but some of the cutest art I’ve seen in a children’s book in ages. It reminded me a lot of Where the Wild things are by Maurice Sendak. In the ways that the art involved tells the majority of the story.
June 10, 2025
It's a beautiful and touching story where dogs and bears are enemies, but they're forced to become allies to defeat a greater threat: the alien Jasmine. United, they fight together to win back their owner Austin's bed, and through this, they become lifelong friends. The illustrations are vibrant and captivating, kids will love them!
July 16, 2025
When you start with this book, right from the first page smile lits up your face. Those illustrations, simple story and cute-like writing style make us to read it once more! Its not just that, there's a story; story of friendship. Even if Dog and a bear have fight everyday, how they become friends? That's the story! Read and enjoy. Best suited for kids.
December 12, 2025
So very cute and clever. A great book for this age range to teach them how to work together period and that sometimes it's okay to join forces.
I love the pastel colors of the illustrations and the font matches the illustrations so well.
Finally, I love the imagination that it takes to write a book like this to help little people understand the bigger people's problems and choices.
I love the pastel colors of the illustrations and the font matches the illustrations so well.
Finally, I love the imagination that it takes to write a book like this to help little people understand the bigger people's problems and choices.
December 28, 2024
Read this to my 3 and 7 year old and they really enjoyed it, especially because they have two dogs and tons of stuffed bears! This was such a cute story of teamwork and working together. The illustrations were cute and grabbed my kids attention most!
August 30, 2025
It's awesome to see kids' creativity - this book was written by a fourth grader. The dogs and bears in Austin's room don't get along - until they face a common enemy. Super cute read.
I received a free e-copy and reviewed for Booktasters.
I received a free e-copy and reviewed for Booktasters.
November 29, 2025
It is a fun and exciting story that teaches kids about diversity, appreciating differences, and working together. The main character, Austin Davis, is a curious fourth-grader who doesn't know that his stuffed animals come to life. Every day when Austin goes to school, his bedroom turns into a battlefield where teddy bears and stuffed dogs fight to be in charge.
One of the best things about the story is how it keeps young readers interested with its lively characters and exciting story. While kids enjoy the fun adventures of Austin and his stuffed animals, they also learn important lessons. Austin is a character kids can relate to, and the stuffed animals' adventures make the book exciting. The mix of fun battles and lessons about accepting others and working together makes the book enjoyable and meaningful.
You might like to wander through a few artistic journals — they’re full of sparks and surprises.
One of the best things about the story is how it keeps young readers interested with its lively characters and exciting story. While kids enjoy the fun adventures of Austin and his stuffed animals, they also learn important lessons. Austin is a character kids can relate to, and the stuffed animals' adventures make the book exciting. The mix of fun battles and lessons about accepting others and working together makes the book enjoyable and meaningful.
You might like to wander through a few artistic journals — they’re full of sparks and surprises.
December 21, 2025
This delightful story, pitting two sides against each other, is beautifully illustrated in a style that is both vibrant and charming. The artwork, bursting with colour and detail, tells its own story, adding depth and richness to the narrative.
Austin Davis employs a simple yet powerful approach to introduce young readers to the concept of diversity. By highlighting the fact that while we may look different on the outside, we share commonalities at our core, he offers a valuable lesson in acceptance and understanding.
So, ultimately, can the dogs and bears overcome their animosity and join forces to defeat their shared foe, or are they doomed to a perpetual state of conflict?
Austin Davis employs a simple yet powerful approach to introduce young readers to the concept of diversity. By highlighting the fact that while we may look different on the outside, we share commonalities at our core, he offers a valuable lesson in acceptance and understanding.
So, ultimately, can the dogs and bears overcome their animosity and join forces to defeat their shared foe, or are they doomed to a perpetual state of conflict?
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews