Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. (NYSE: BBW), renowned for offering a personalized experience where guests of all ages can create their own special furry friends, is excited to announce the release of a new board book titled “Friends Forever.” The new book, illustrated by Anna Jones and created in collaboration with Odd Dot, an imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, invites readers on an adventure inside Build-A-Bear Workshop. Through the story, children experience the joy of creating a special friend that will last “fur-ever.”
The cover features a spinning wheel that allows readers to create a bear, bunny or frog, among other loveable animals, then open the book to journey through the Workshop. Guests can purchase the book at a participating Build-A-Bear Workshop or online at “Friends Forever” Board Book | Build-A-Bear® (buildabear.com).
“We are thrilled to partner with Odd Dot to bring ‘Friends Forever’ to our guests,” said Sharon Price John, President & CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop. “This book captures the heart of a Build-A-Bear Workshop adventure, and we believe this story will inspire young hearts and bring the special bond of friendship to life in a way only Build-A-Bear can.”
“What could be more magical than making a new, cuddly best friend? ‘Friends Forever’ invites our readers to embark on that journey of imagination, friendship, and play – the same journey at the heart of the Build-A-Bear Workshop experience,” said Nathalie Le Du, Publisher of Odd Dot. “We are overjoyed to bring this enchanting experience to the page with one-of-a-kind novelty and a universal tale of friendship. This book holds a special place in our hearts, and we can’t wait to share it with children and their families to spark joy across all generations.”
Build-A-Bear Workshop is excited to celebrate the launch of the “Friends Forever” book with special story time events on October 2 and 9 at participating Workshops. During these events, a Bear Builder will read the “Friends Forever” story, introducing its characters and themes through engaging readings. Children will enjoy interactive games and activities and have the chance to create their very own forever friend to take home. Guests of all ages are invited to join us for a fun-filled experience that makes the joy of “Friends Forever” truly unforgettable.
In addition to “Friends Forever,” the two companies are expected to release another book later this year, “A Wish from the Heart.”
Since 1997, Build-A-Bear has been adding a little more heart to life for children and families around the world. The brand has a core focus of advancing childhood literacy through its non-profit organization, Build-A-Bear Foundation, and has a goal of donating 100,000 books in 2024.
