Inspired by the true story of the Central Park Zoo polar bears,
Ida and Gus, Caron Levis who joins us today, created a beautiful children’s book full of lessons. “IDA, ALWAYS” written by Levis and illustrated by Charles Santoso, is a beautiful, honest portrait of loss and deep friendship told through the story of the two iconic polar bears
“A tender and honest portrayal of coming to terms with death.
”—School Library Journal, starred review
Some background: Gus came to the Central Park Zoo in 1988. His presence there grew to iconic status over the years, his exhibit being seen by 20 million zoo goers! He was joined for 24 years by Ida, a female Polar bear who was Gus’s best friend. Ida and Gus shared a den until Ida passed away in 2011 of cancer. Gus followed her in 2013 after an inoperable thyroid tumor robbed him of his health.
About “IDA, ALWAYS”
Gus lives in a big park in the middle of an even bigger city, and he spends his days with Ida. Ida is right there. Always. Then one sad day, Gus learns that Ida is very sick, and she isn’t going to get better. The friends help each other face the difficult news with whispers, sniffles, cuddles, and even laughs. Slowly Gus realizes that even after Ida is gone, she will still be with him—through the sounds of their city, and the memories that live in their favorite spots.
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