I created Jesse the Precocious Polar Bear for a little boy I met when on vacation in Aruba. When he found out that I was an author of children’s books he was interested in a book about polar bears, his favorite animal. I promised him to have his book completed by the following year when I returned to Aruba. When I presented a copy of the book to Jesse he was thrilled!
Here is a limerick I created about Jesse:
Jesse the Precocious Polar Bear
There once was a Polar Bear named Jesse,
Who only wanted to have a special bestie.
He saved a little seal
From being a meal.
Now his kindness earned a friendship for Jesse.
Here is a photo of adorable Jesse with his book. He is now a grown up preteen who shares his book with his two younger brothers.

The life lessons in Jesse are listen to your mother and friends are important.
Blurb:
Jesse is a precocious and very intelligent polar bear. He likes to learn about everything but what polar bears are supposed to know. Jesse has a couple of surprising adventures and learns an important lesson.
Here are a few reviews on Amazon:
JC5.0 out of 5 stars Good book for curious childrenReviewed in the United States on November 24, 2014Format: PaperbackJesse is a baby polar bear who not only likes to ask a lot of questions, but also questions the status quo of all the things around him.
As tough as it is sometimes, his mother lets him express his opinions and just once in a while, lets him get away with certain things that are contrary to a polar bear’s best judgment.
In the end, mama’s patience pays off, as Jesse is saved by a dear friend that he would not have, had he followed traditional rules.
The book teaches little ones (and their parents) that sometimes, not everything has to be the way it has always been. It also reminds us to breathe deeply every time our little one asks us repeatedly why, why, why, why??
Michelle Clements James5.0 out of 5 stars Lesson on friendshipReviewed in the United States on June 18, 2015Format: Kindle EditionVerified PurchaseJesse wants a friend. Jesse doesn’t do what little polar bears are supposed to do. While not minding his mother, Jesse gets into trouble and is saved by an unlikely friend. This adorable story emphasizes not only the need to follow instructions, but also how to be a loyal friend. This darling storybook is beautifully illustrated by the author’s husband. It is sure to keep any young child entertained while teaching valuable lessons.
Sarah Reviews5.0 out of 5 stars Another Winner!Reviewed in the United States on April 24, 2014Format: PaperbackJanice and John Spina, a creative husband and wife team, have done it again. Mr. Spina’s wonderful illustrations add loveliness to the delightful story told in rhymes by Mrs. Spina. As in the author’s previous books for children, the ursine protagonist in “Jesse the Precocious Polar Bear” is conferred with human attributes that resonate with children, such as curiosity, a need to socialize, and protectiveness of a good friend. Jessy, who is want of friends, finds one in a baby seal. When the little seal’s safety is threatened, Jesse protects him and shields him from harm. The precocious and kind little polar bear is rewarded in time, as he himself is eventually saved from dangerous waters by the same baby seal.
“Jesse the Precocious Polar Bear” is the fifth in the Spina team’s series of charming kid books that entertain while they instill good values and impart important life lessons. Highly recommended
Deanie Humphrys-Dunne5.0 out of 5 stars Another endearing, educational book by Janice Spina!Reviewed in the United States on April 24, 2014Format: Kindle EditionJanice Spina didn’t disappoint her readers with her new book, Jesse the Precocious Polar Bear. Jesse is curious, bright and playful. He loves to play by sliding around on the ice. Jesse’s mom tries to teach him about hunting for food. But Jesse would rather look for new friends. One day, he protects a baby seal, even though Jesse’s mom had something else in mind for his new friend. The little seal remembered Jesse’s kind act. One day something happens and Jesse is in danger. That day, Jesse learned an important lesson. Children, parents and teachers will love this story and they will remember the wisdom it shares. I highly recommend this lovely book. Congratulations to Janice and her husband, John, who created the delightful, colorful, illustrations. You make a great team.
Reviewed by children’s author, Deanie Humphrys-Dunne
I hope your children will enjoy this book and learn valuable life lessons. All Jemsbooks carry life lessons – be kind and caring toward others, it’s okay to be different, be the best you can be, listen to your mother, be respectful of parents and others, and friendship and family matter.
Blessings & Hugs!
Janice
My new grandson will love this when he’s old enough – dragons, too!
He is precious! 💕
Thanks. I had a raspy throat last week so I am banned from seeing him until this weekend – tough for me…the new rules for parenthood are a far cry from when my kids were babies!
Better to be safe than sorry. Do FaceTime so you can see him! So sweet! I love babies! My youngest grandson is 6! They grow up so fast! 💕🤪
Feel better soon, take a little honey with lemon and a few drops of whiskey in a glass and toss it back. You will feel better! 😆 💕