Journey of the Pale Bear - by Susan Fletcher Paperback

About the Book

Twelve-year-old Arthur forms a bond with a polar bear given by King Haakon IV of Norway to King Henry III of England in 1252 while traveling as her handler. Includes historical notes.

Book Synopsis

"A lovely little miracle of a book." --Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medal-winning author of The One and Only Ivan
"[A] large-hearted and riveting medieval adventure." --William Alexander, National Book Award-winning author of Goblin Secrets
"A breathtaking adventure." --Kirby Larson, Newbery Honor--winning author of Hattie Big Sky

A runaway boy befriends a polar bear that's being transported from Norway to London in this "stupendous coming-of-age tale stuffed with adventure" (Kirkus Reviews, starred review).

The polar bear is a royal bear, a gift from the King of Norway to the King of England. The first time Arthur encounters the bear, she terrifies him. Yet, strangely, she doesn't harm him--though she has attacked anyone else who comes near. So Arthur finds himself taking care of a polar bear on a ship to England.

Tasked with feeding and cleaning up after the bear, Arthur's fears slowly lessen as he begins to feel a connection to this bear, who like him, has been cut off from her family. But the journey holds many dangers, and Arthur knows his own freedom--perhaps even his life--depends on keeping the bear from harm. When pirates attack, Arthur must make a choice--does he do everything he can to save himself, or does he help the bear to find freedom?

Based on the real story of a polar bear that lived in the Tower of London, this timeless adventure story thoughtfully looks at the themes of freedom, captivity, and the bond between a boy and a bear.

Review Quotes

* "A stupendous coming-of-age tale stuffed with adventure and laced with deeper questions."-- "Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW"

"Fletcher (Falcon in the Glass, 2013) blends high-seas action-adventure with a heartwarming animal-human friendship. Based on historical events, this is a heartfelt tale with plenty of middle-grade appeal."-- "Booklist"

"I loved every single thing about this large-hearted and riveting medieval adventure."-- "William Alexander, National Book Award Winning author of Goblin Secrets"

"I simply adore this novel. It has it all: gorgeous prose, fascinating history, riveting adventure. But it's the unlikely tender friendship between a lonely boy and a polar bear that makes this a story to cherish. A lovely little miracle of a book."-- "Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medal Winning author of The One and Only Ivan"

"Kindred to such timeless read alouds as Charlotte's Web and The One and Only Ivan...Readers of all ages will not be able to put this one down."-- "School Library Connection"

"Master storyteller Susan Fletcher creates a breathtaking adventure. Every reader will want to be Arthur, bonding with that exquisite bear, in their search for true freedom."-- "Kirby Larson, Newbery Honor Winning author of Hattie Big Sky"