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A review by bojanus
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
adventurous
challenging
dark
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
A thoughtful, atmospheric, nuanced story with fantastical elements. I loved the descriptions of the winter and all the details of the building, clothing, tools etc. Definitely felt like I was in a cold Russian winter trying to survive.
I loved all the characters. Vasya of course is the star with a wild personality that a modern reader can't help but cheer for as she does her best to escape the cultural misogyny she is entrenched in which demands she become a wife/mother or nun. The human antagonists were also a highlight. Although I detested what they did and the damage they caused, both Anna and Konstantin are characterized so well in the narrative that I completely understood each of their choices. I love a story that can make me understand WHY every character is the way they are and where all of their decisions make sense to them.
The vibes are somewhat heavy and plodding, like walking through several feet of snow, but it's beautiful. Definitely recommend this for someone curious about Russian folklore/mythology, or someone who enjoys an underdog protagonist, or who like complex/nuanced characters and families, with a little magic as well.
I loved all the characters. Vasya of course is the star with a wild personality that a modern reader can't help but cheer for as she does her best to escape the cultural misogyny she is entrenched in which demands she become a wife/mother or nun. The human antagonists were also a highlight. Although I detested what they did and the damage they caused, both Anna and Konstantin are characterized so well in the narrative that I completely understood each of their choices. I love a story that can make me understand WHY every character is the way they are and where all of their decisions make sense to them.
The vibes are somewhat heavy and plodding, like walking through several feet of snow, but it's beautiful. Definitely recommend this for someone curious about Russian folklore/mythology, or someone who enjoys an underdog protagonist, or who like complex/nuanced characters and families, with a little magic as well.