Scan barcode
benditlikebecka's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
dreaminthepages's review against another edition
4.0
What an amazing strong first novel - the Winter scenery was atmospheric and this whole story gave all the fairytale/folklore vibes. I loved learning the different stories of Russian folklore and how similar some of the creatures were to other folklore tales.
It also reminded me of studio Ghibli's Spirited Away (and a little bit of Howls Moving Castle) and the white walkers from Game of Thrones so if you like those, and lots of horses, check this out!
It also reminded me of studio Ghibli's Spirited Away (and a little bit of Howls Moving Castle) and the white walkers from Game of Thrones so if you like those, and lots of horses, check this out!
daniobsessivelyreads's review against another edition
5.0
Draws you into the smoldering national cabin deep in the heart of Russia. With a fiery young girl the retreats from her family who reject her to run wild with the horses.
asherstrife's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
0.5
This is an incredible book. Gorgeous writing, beautiful setting, ethereal folklore type vibes.
nekotin's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
rjyc's review against another edition
4.0
What an adventure!
The Bear and the Nightingale is definitely one of the more unique novels I've picked up. The stories and characters rooted in ancient folklore, the setting in medieval Russia. From the very first page, I was transported to a new world. Everything from the beautiful names, the intricate fairy tales laced throughout, to the lyrical prose, it painted a fantastical picture.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book for what it was, a wonderfully written debut novel, there were some elements that seemed awkward at parts and pulled me out of the story. For one, the emotion was a bit lacking. While this may just be due to the prose and manner of how the stories are being told, it all felt a bit too impersonal and distant for me to really connect to the characters. It may just be me, however.
Overall, a lovely, unique read. Will definitely pick up the sequel at some point.
The Bear and the Nightingale is definitely one of the more unique novels I've picked up. The stories and characters rooted in ancient folklore, the setting in medieval Russia. From the very first page, I was transported to a new world. Everything from the beautiful names, the intricate fairy tales laced throughout, to the lyrical prose, it painted a fantastical picture.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book for what it was, a wonderfully written debut novel, there were some elements that seemed awkward at parts and pulled me out of the story. For one, the emotion was a bit lacking. While this may just be due to the prose and manner of how the stories are being told, it all felt a bit too impersonal and distant for me to really connect to the characters. It may just be me, however.
Overall, a lovely, unique read. Will definitely pick up the sequel at some point.
michellechien930's review against another edition
4.0
I've seen the praise for this book and basically went in with no expectations and idea as to what the plot is about. And I loved it! Katherine Arden is such a good writer- I thought she was Russian for most of the story. For me, this is why I love reading so much. I live in an asian country, and yet I have the world's experiences at my fingertips. I never knew much about Russia (typical stereotypes include: vodka, cold weather, Princess Anastasia, Soviet union), but reading Russian literature lately made me feel in love with the beautiful atmosphere of the land. I really loved learning about Moscow and the old Russian fairy tales. Fairy tales from around the world are so incredibly interesting, it's a shame most people only know their Grimm or Andersen. I also loved how the book drew parallels at the beginning with the end. Vasya and Death have never made a better pair, and I already ship them even if technically nothing has happened yet. I am looking forward to the next book!
louureadsbooks's review against another edition
3.0
I gave The Bear and the Nightingale ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 stars! To be honest this wasn’t something I would’ve picked up if I saw it in a bookstore, but it was an interesting read! I’m glad I got the opportunity to read and expand on different genres because it was so interesting to read about Russian folklore. All in all it’s not one of those books that will stick with me forever but also not a horrible read!