The Island and the Bear
A touching journey of discovery and belonging
Louise Greig author Vanya Nastanlieva illustrator
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Floris Books
Published:16th Mar '17
Should be back in stock very soon
On a quiet Hebridean island, a bear's unexpected arrival sparks a journey of discovery and belonging in The Island and the Bear.
On a serene and wild Hebridean island, a bear unexpectedly appears, creating a delightful yet puzzling scenario. This gentle giant, who poses no threat to anyone, roams the island with a carefree spirit. He plays in the streams and dances with the wind, embodying a sense of wonder and innocence. However, the presence of a bear in such a place raises questions about belonging and home. Despite his friendly demeanor, the bear's existence on the island feels out of place, prompting the question: will he ever find his way back home?
The narrative unfolds in The Island and the Bear, weaving a touching tale through Louise Greig's lyrical verse. Each page invites readers into a world where anything is possible, emphasizing the beauty of nature and the bonds we share with it. The enchanting illustrations by Vanya Nastanlieva complement the story perfectly, bringing to life the magical essence of the Hebridean landscape and the bear's journey.
Inspired by a true story that has become a cherished legend in the Scottish Hebrides, The Island and the Bear captures the imagination of both children and adults. It explores themes of belonging, friendship, and the adventures that can arise in the most unexpected places. With its heartfelt storytelling and stunning visuals, this book is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever felt out of place yet yearned for connection.
'Greig weaves magic in every line she writes.'
-- The Herald
'A truly delightful book, one to share with anyone who will appreciate the sparse but beautiful use of language, combined with dramatic but heartfelt illustrations.'
-- Books for Keeps
'With Louise Greig's gently rhyming text and Vanya Nastanlieva's wonderfully evocative hand-drawn illustrations, this is one of those children's books that is a joy to read to little bears.'
-- The Press & Journal
'The story has a rather ethereal feeling about it, like a folk tale though based on a true story from the Scottish Hebrides. The soft, beautiful illustrations create a lovely tale.'
-- Youth Services Book Review
'The Island and the Bear' is a true animal fable that has a message of overcoming fear with love at its core. It is a great gift from an area celebrated for its isolated, wild, sea-framed beauty, poetry, and music.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'It features lovely illustrations by Vanya Nastanlieva, which aptly capture the moods and shapes of the Hebridean coastline.'
-- West Coast Review
'... flashes of lilting language and perceptive phrasing lift the text... The universal themes of the story are easy for young readers to relate to and celebrating 'bear-ness' never loses its appeal! Vanya Nastanlieva's illustrations use muted, earthy colours -- browns, greys, greens and blues -- and plenty of space, evoking the sense of quiet and expansiveness of the Hebridean landscape... A special, soulful book.'
-- Armadillo
'The story is very nicely written with rhyming verse and a rhythm to read aloud. The illustrations also add to the atmosphere.'
-- Barefoot on the Croft
'Tender and lyrical... adults will just adore snuggling up to share this wonderful book with the children in their lives. I would highly recommend buying it.'
-- Catherine Ward, Waterstones customer
ISBN: 9781782503682
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 154g
24 pages