Helpful Score: 5
The perfect book for action-loving teens who think they don't like to read or a lighter novel for adults who enjoy adventure stories with Native American elements. Like the ubiquitous Gary Paulsen books, Touching Spirit Bear offers a story of teen boy vs wilderness and self. But Ben Mikaelsen provides more insight into his protagonist's thoughts and emotions.
The book begins as fifteen-year-old Cole Matthews arrives on a remote Alaskan island where he will struggle to survive hunger, isolation, harsh weather, and a bear attack. After severely assaulting a weaker boy at school, Cole was assigned to a dedicated youth probation officer who uses concepts from his Tlingit (Native Alaskan) heritage to subject Cole to a life-changing wilderness experience rather than standard juvenile detention.
As Cole overcomes physical challenges, he also comes to terms with his violent emotions and the damage he has caused others. Cole's behavior problems are rooted in abuse he endured from his father, but Mikaelsen emphasizes Cole's need to accept responsibility for his own actions in the present and to release the anger and self-pity that will only continue the cycle of abuse and violence.
The book begins as fifteen-year-old Cole Matthews arrives on a remote Alaskan island where he will struggle to survive hunger, isolation, harsh weather, and a bear attack. After severely assaulting a weaker boy at school, Cole was assigned to a dedicated youth probation officer who uses concepts from his Tlingit (Native Alaskan) heritage to subject Cole to a life-changing wilderness experience rather than standard juvenile detention.
As Cole overcomes physical challenges, he also comes to terms with his violent emotions and the damage he has caused others. Cole's behavior problems are rooted in abuse he endured from his father, but Mikaelsen emphasizes Cole's need to accept responsibility for his own actions in the present and to release the anger and self-pity that will only continue the cycle of abuse and violence.
