"In a lovely old village they call Apple Tree, Not far from the mountains, not close to the sea..." Welcome to Apple Tree Jean-Pierre Bear, the first book in this new series, introduces children to characters in this delightful little town while showcasing themes of diversity, cooperation, and kindness. Children will learn simple foreign-language words and phrases introduced by characters from around the world. In this book, children meet Jean-Pierre Bear -- a charming fellow from Paris, and his pet hedgehog, Hercule The book is written in a rhyming style that children will love and includes colorful illustrations full of detail and whimsy.