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MWSA Review
Eileen Clancy Biegel’s Shipmate is a moving tribute to her brother, a Coast Guard chief warrant officer. Through illustration and narrative, Biegel uses her brother’s nickname, “The Bear,” to recount her brother’s legacy onboard the Coast Guard cutter Southwind (a refurbished icebreaker).
A child will enjoy the illustrations of Chief and Betty Bear, while an adult could help explain the various adventures faced by the Southwind’s crew of bears: navigating through the world’s oceans, delivering supplies to the Antarctic, and dodging icebergs while rescuing ships in distress. Both the child and their adult reading companion will learn something new about Coast Guard service while reading this book.
Review by John Cathcart (July 2025)
Author's Synopsis
The Bear has recently joined the United States Coast Guard, and his first duty assignment is the United States Coast Guard Cutter Southwind. Eager to learn all that he can about his new job as a Quartermaster onboard the “Polar Prowler,” the Bear is lucky enough to meet his new boss who turns out to be his mentor as well.
The Southwind embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime journey around the world. The Bear and the crew rise to the challenges that life aboard an icebreaker may bring.
The Bear pays it forward and mentors other young “Coasties” during his career. The repercussions of sharing one’s gifts and talents are felt for generations to come.
Format(s) for review: Paper Only
Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book
Number of Pages: 36
Word Count: 710
