Review: Ghost of Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Plot: Cole and Peter return to school after their time on the island, and realize that life in the city is hard to cope with. Cole strives to see change in his school, the same change he's seen in himself, but he can't do it alone. He needs the help of those around them in order to really make a difference.

My Thoughts: This book was ok. It was nice to see what happened to Cole and Peter after the island, but I don't think this book was totally necessary. It does have a great message about changing yourself in order to make a difference around you, though.

Review: Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Plot: Cole Matthews, a troubled teenager, has a choice-- jail, or a year alone on a remote island in Alaska. When Cole is first left on the island, he burns down the hut that was built for him, along with his supplies, and tries to fight the legendary Spirit Bear, which basically tears him to shreds. After recovering in a hospital, he goes back to the island, set on changing his life for the better after being given a second chance at life.

My Thoughts: This book is great. I read it in middle school and I didn't really get it, but reading it again made me enjoy and understand it a lot more. I think this is a great coming-of-age book, and there are lessons to be learned about anger and trust.