In the snow-covered town of Hancock, Michigan, winter stretches long and deep—until one magical day signals that spring is halfway near.

It’s Heikinpäivä, the Finnish festival that celebrates the turning of the season and the old saying, “Karhu kylkeänsä kääntää”—“the bear rolls onto his other side.”
 
Follow a community of cheerful townsfolk as they bake pulla, race kicksleds, and sing songs of warmth and hope. Deep in the forest, a sleepy bear stirs in his cozy den beneath the pines, dreaming of sunshine and summer berries. With lyrical rhyme and whimsical, Seuss-style rhythm, this story brings to life the wonder of Finnish folklore and the joy of Copper Country winters.
Perfect for families who love culture, tradition, and heartwarming winter tales, When the Bear Rolls Over celebrates heritage, hope, and community—with a sprinkle of northern magic.
Ideal for:

❄️ Children ages 4–8
🐾 Classrooms exploring cultural holidays and folklore
📚 Readers who love winter, animals, and family traditions
 
Bring warmth to the coldest season—because when the bear rolls over, spring isn’t far behind.