The Shadow Of The Bear by Regina Doman

[KWill20]

Let's face it: trying to find any sort of Catholic YA fiction is practically impossible these days. But somehow in high school, I was introduced to Regina Doman's fairy tale series. Although it incorporates Catholic values, you don't have to be religious to fall in love with this series.The first book in the series is called The Shadow of The Bear, and this book is delightful. It has actually become one of my favorite books ever. I say this to anyone who asks me about Doman: she is not just a writer, but she is also a fine example of a storyteller with an untouchable faith.

This story stars Blanche, a Senior in high school. Blanche is feeling like she's the odd one out because of bullies at school thinking she is a "goody two-shoes." She also feels left out because it seems like she lives behind her little sister Rose's shadow. Most people know Blanche as a very quiet, conscious and anxious girl. But under that layer of shyness you discover that she is very studious and peaceful, as she loves to play piano and read literature. One day, a homeless man named Bear appears on Blanche's doorstep, asking for help. So Blanche and Rose offer to help him, and the first time they come together Blanche doesn't say much. Bear continually comes back to visit them and little by little, they both start to become friends. Blanche ends up going to prom with Bear as her date, and unfortunately discovers the secrets of his haunted past.

Regina Doman is REALLY talented. She did a great job of incorporating little bits of Brothers Grimm's Snow White and Rose Red. into a modern day story. Her writing never faltered, as I always felt like I was on the edge of my seat. By the end of the story, I felt like I wanted it to keep going and not end. My favorite part of the story was all of the characters. I found all of the characters relatable, and thought Doman presented them in a very noble and humble way. If I had to pick one character that I liked out of the rest, I would say Blanche because I feel that I relate to her the most. But it didn't take long for me to fall in love with Rose's optimism for life, Bear's protectiveness towards the people he loves, and Fish's mysterious ways.

I want to go on about this book, but I want you to go out and discover the wonderfulness of this book for yourself. If you haven't read it yet, I suggest you find it and read it right away! I give it 5/5 stars.