The first book in the trilogy – The Bear and the Piano – has sold over 120,000 copies in the UK and won the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize, Illustrated Book Category for 2016

Hector and his dog Hugo have made music together through good times, bad times and even some crazy times. But when Hugo learns to play the fiddle, and gets the chance to play with Bear’s Big Band, Hector’s jealousy gets the better of him. Can Hector swallow his pride and learn to be happy for his friend? Set in New Orleans with a new cast of animal musicians, this big-hearted sequel to the best-selling The Bear and the Piano teaches that friendship, like good music, lasts forever.

BBC Music Magazine – ‘Litchfield’s warm, richly coloured images are filled with gentle humour, while he packs plenty of emotion and nuance into his succinct text- and music as a starring role.’ The Daily Mail – ‘Litchfield’s stunning illustrations conjure up the twinkling lights and sombre shadows of New Orleans, beautifully reflecting the joy and melancholy that offset each other in this touching story. Another guaranteed bestseller from this remarkable artist.’ The Daily Mail, ‘Best Christmas Books’ – ‘Loyalty and friendship underpin this touching story from the wonderful David Litchfield…Litchfield’s captivating rendition of New Orleans’ lights and sombre shadows reflects joy and melancholy to stunning effect.’ The Bookseller, ‘Editor’s Choice’ – ‘A big-hearted sequel starring a new cast of animals musicians…this captures all the warmth and charm of the original, with show stopping cityscapes and heartfelt emotion.’ The Bookseller, ‘Season’s Highlights’ – ‘Completely charming tale of friendship and music.’

**Don’t miss David Litchfield’s other books: The Bear and the Piano [1] The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle [2] The Bear, the Piano and Little Bear’s Concert [3] Grandad’s Secret Giant Lights on Cotton Rock