Touching Spirit Bear: A+, a MUST Read

I simply loved this book. It's an interesting and compelling story told by a master story-teller. I can't wait to read more of Mr. Mikaelsen's books. This book focuses on a young protagonist, Cole, who lands himself in a heap of trouble after beating up a defenseless classmate. As the story unfolds, we learn a lot about Cole's parents, which helps to explain---but not excuse---the source of his anger. At heart, the book is a reflection on anger---what it is, why it exists, how to control it. Cole is facing time in a juvenile detention center when a wise and compassionate social worker introduces him to the idea of Native American Circle Justice, which includes sending Cole to an isolated island off the southern coast of Alaska to learn about himself, the world, and the source of anger. That is where the story really unfolds, as Cole learns to survive on his own and to confront his inner demons, and the source of his anger. I couldn't put the book down, and have recommended it to everyone I know. The book is a hands down A+.

Here is one of many great passages from the book:

Edwin nods. “People spend lifetimes breaking their stick to get rid of anger. But always anger remains, and they think they’ve failed.”

“So if I can’t ever get rid of my anger, why even try?” Cole asked

Edwin reached and took the remaining piece of stick from Cole’s hand. His fingers toyed with the wood as he looked up at the sunrise that had begun to glow warmly over the trees. Then he glanced over his shoulder at the dark storm clouds that hung menacingly on the opposite horizon. He waved the stick. “Is the sky sunny, or is it stormy? he asked

Cole looked both ways and shrugged. “Depends on which way you look.” “If you looked only at the clouds, what would you say?:

“Stormy.”

“Yes, and what would you say if you looked only at the sunrise?”

……..”Sunny,” he grunted impatiently.