With unforgettable characters, a wild and isolated setting and a mysterious bear, author Julia Phillips illustrates a captivating and shocking page-turner that explores how human behavior relates to nature.
Phillips incorporates a classic Pacific Northwest setting to highlight the central themes of man versus nature. The story is set in the San Juan islands off the coast of Washington, the location playing a crucial role in the lives of the characters as they interact with the wild forest around them. Nature lovers and animal lovers alike will enjoy the vivid imagery woven throughout the story, creating an immersive experience with every scene.
The story revolves around sisters Elena and Sam, who live in their island home with their mother, who is elderly and sick. Sam works for the Washington ferry system, where she travels on a boat across the channel of islands every day. When Sam spots a bear swimming in the ocean toward their island, it sets off a chain of events that alter the course of their lives – and the lives of every island’s inhabitants – forever.
The novel illuminates the adverse effects of the bear’s presence in the community, with each community member holding a different opinion about the creature’s arrival and its unusual presence on such an isolated island. Phillps crafts the two main characters, Elena and Sam, as being polar opposites, symbolizing the two different perspectives of humans with nature. Elena is instantly obsessed with the bear, even attempting to domesticate it, while Sam wants the bear removed by state authorities. These contrasting perspectives reflect the larger struggle to coexist with the natural world – some people seek to control it and understand it, while others believe that true respect means leaving it untouched. Through skillful character development, Phillps portrays the two sides of this argument.
Phillips’ fast-paced writing style keeps the story moving, propelling the plot forward with every page. The author crafts the lives of the two sisters as being filled with small discoveries and adventures, into a narrative that sharply contrasts their daily routines. This tension between the ordinary and extraordinary creates an intriguing novella that will leave readers eager to learn more. The novel maintains a mysterious, thrilling tone, showcasing Phillips’ creative writing techniques.
As a shorter read, Bear captivates with its intensity and intricate details. Despite its length, the novel manages to develop well-rounded characters and deliver a fast-paced, action-packed tale. The book’s conclusion will leave readers shocked, making it a memorable read. A story about sisterhood, human adaptation to the wild and the lessons learned from living alongside nature, Bear is a worthwhile and compelling choice for readers seeking a quick yet impactful story.