2021 Reading Challenge - Read a Book Discussed at an FCPL Book Club
Back in early 2021, before Forsyth County Public Library shut down due to COVID-19, I was supposed to lead a book group discussion about the book The Bear and the Nightingale, by Katherine Arden. We never got to have that book discussion. So now is my chance to share this wonderful book with you!
The Bear and The Nightingale tells the story of Vasya, a young girl growing up in a remote village in Northern Russia, on the edge of the wilderness. Her nanny, Dunya, tells magical stories to the whole family around a blazing oven, stories of frost-demons and other spirits. However, for Vasya, these are more than just stories - for she is gifted with the Sight, which she inherited from her mother, who died giving birth to her. Vasya grows up a wild, willful girl, to the annoyance of her family. However, when Vasya's father remarries and brings her new step-mother Anna home, life begins to change for Vasya; and the arrival of a new priest in the village brings further change, but worse still a rising threat of danger. A danger that it seems only Vasya can save them all from.
This is an enchanting story, and it pulled me in from the very first chapter. Set in medieval Russia, it is a wonderful blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and mythical folklore, with an adult fairy-tale-like feel. Vasya is a strong, brave, and captivating heroine . . . and she is unforgettable. The wintry setting is completely captivating, making it the perfect nighttime read.
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