An unusual heroine (Darcy, late of London, now in Yellowstone) in an odd, dreamy-breathless situation (pneumonia and winter) has an encounter with a bear. I found the book an easy read, that draws you along through the strangeness of debilitating illness and survival conditions in a national park and connection to the wild. There's a mystery here, too.

I'm afraid it does not end well for the bear. Some people like to know that about animal focused books. There's compassion and a deep ecological message, however. ( )

Literary Merit: Okay
Characterization: Okay
Recommended: Not recommended
Level: 6-12

Darcy's family moves to Yellowstone Park following her father's line of environmental work. While there, Darcy stumbles upon a semi-conscious, hibernating bear and finds herself being literally pulled into an embrace. Thus begins a complicated relationship between she and the animal. A pre-existing illness in Darcy is hinted at, but is never addressed. She is further ailed by altitude sickness which results in Darcy experiencing out-of-body experiences.

Darcy does not read as a believable character and the ending of the book leaves the reader feeling confused rather than inspired, as the author intends. ( )