Status
Available
Call number
Series
Collection
Publication
Del Rey (2017), 336 pages
Description
In a village at the edge of the wilderness of northern Russia, where the winds blow cold and the snow falls many months of the year, a stranger with piercing blue eyes presents a new father with a gift - a precious jewel on a delicate chain, intended for his young daughter. Uncertain of its meaning, the father hides the gift away and his daughter, Vasya, grows up a wild, wilful girl, to the chagrin of her family. But when mysterious forces threaten the happiness of their village, Vasya discovers that, armed only with the necklace, she may be the only one who can keep the darkness at bay
User reviews
LibraryThing member stormyhearted
A book with magic and wicked stepmothers set in medieval Russia with a main character named Vasilisa? Yes, yes please. The fact that sole blurb on the back of the ARC was from Naomi Novik, author of Uprooted, was just icing on the cake. The story revolves around young Vasya, though it begins
I am not intimately familiar with Russian folklore nor history, so it’s impossible for me to speak on the novel’s accuracy on those points. (Aside from a discrepancy acknowledged by the author in a note at the back of the book, which was intentional for storytelling purposes.) The use of diminutives tripped me up on more than one occasion- I kept confusing her brothers Kolya and Alyosha, and it took me a bit to remember that Sasha is a nickname for Aleksandr. But these were minor speedbumps; I devoured this book in a single sitting, and a few lines throughout the book make me intensely hopeful for a sequel. The world building was rich and real; the characters were whole and human (except when they weren’t). I whole-heartedly recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fantasy, Russian folklore, or anyone just looking for a good read.
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somewhat before her birth, and the major characters are her immediate family members and the other residents of the house: her father, a high ranking lord, the beloved family nurse, her elder sister and three elder brothers, her nervous and unhappy stepmother, and the equally unhappy priest who comes to minister to the village. Vasilisa possesses a magical gift, the ability to see spirits like the domovoi and vazila, and as the village priest turns the villagers away from their long traditional offerings to a fearful observance of Christianity focused on the terror of damnation, the village quickly suffers- and Morozko, the winter king, has trouble keeping his wicked brother Medved the Bear asleep and subdued.I am not intimately familiar with Russian folklore nor history, so it’s impossible for me to speak on the novel’s accuracy on those points. (Aside from a discrepancy acknowledged by the author in a note at the back of the book, which was intentional for storytelling purposes.) The use of diminutives tripped me up on more than one occasion- I kept confusing her brothers Kolya and Alyosha, and it took me a bit to remember that Sasha is a nickname for Aleksandr. But these were minor speedbumps; I devoured this book in a single sitting, and a few lines throughout the book make me intensely hopeful for a sequel. The world building was rich and real; the characters were whole and human (except when they weren’t). I whole-heartedly recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fantasy, Russian folklore, or anyone just looking for a good read.
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LibraryThing member quondame
Retooling of Russian Fairy Tale Morozoko Father Frost. A good story about an exceptional and feisty girl. She was warned. She was given an explanation. Nevertheless, she persisted. Well she tried to explain, but since she saw what they couldn’t, they only feared her. It does capture some of the
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claustrophobia of being shut up with a small group of people with tensions and strife. But no vodka! Didn’t the 14th-15th cent have vodka? Some drunkenness, but not a big feature. “The first records of vodka come from ninth-century Russia and eighth-century Poland “ Show Less
LibraryThing member bibliovermis
The start of a beautiful, engaging, fast-paced and fascinating trilogy.
LibraryThing member AmaliaGavea
‘’Fairy tales are sweet on winter nights, nothing more.’’
Russian fairy tales are unlike any others, in my opinion.They are not simple, ‘’happily-ever-after’’ myths, but wonderfully detailed glimpses in the daily lives of people born in times gone-by and tales that hide themes that
This book has been sitting in my TBR for practically forever, and when the second part came to me as an ARC, I thought it was finally time to begin my journey to Lesnaya Zemlya. In a Russian village, during the late medieval times, a child is born but the mother dies. Vasya has inherited the extraordinary, otherworldly gift of her mother, along with her kind heart, her free spirit of adventure and tolerance. Vasya can see what noone else is worthy to see, but her gift puts her in danger when her father decides to wed another woman. Her name is Anna, a fundamentalist as any has ever seen in any genre in Literature, and another woman who has the ability to see ‘’demons’’. Terrified of the traces of the pagan culture in her husband’s territory, she calls for a priest to come and cast away the demons. Konstantin arrives and everything in Vasya’s life changes.
The essence of the tale is the battle between the pagan tradition and Christianity. Still, ‘’’battle’’ isn’t the right word, since this division is completely constructed by a small number of people who wish to serve their own false convictions. Before Anna came to the community, the people had found the perfect balance between the teachings of Christ and the old Russian deities and traditions. Until priests started talking of demons, fire, and eternal damnation. It’s always been a point of great discourse (and discord) in Literature and in History. In any case, Vasya, Dunya and most of the women are respectful followers of both religions. Anna cannot understand it, locked as she is in her own hallucinations and she descends into a darkness where fear and demons reign. The problem is that she takes everyone else with her.
Arden has composed a tale out of many familiar characteristics of Russian fairy tales. The well-known legend of Lord Winter and the beautiful Maiden lies at the heart of it, while we meet the Baba Yaga, the domovoi (the peaceful spirits that protect the hearth of the Russian household), the vazila, the enchanting Rusalka...The supernatural characters become the heart of the story, because the human characters, well...they’re not very interesting. Anna would make a fine couple with the Devil she so hates (although I’d pity the poor man…), Vasya’s father is a doormat and Dunya is kind and comforting, but not that original. The one who had my unwavering attention was Konstantin, the young priest. An ambiguous character, fully conflicted, dark and perplexing as he is perplexed. He desperately wants to believe and serve but in what? In whom? His interactions with Vasilisa were brilliant and very intriguing. Besides Vasya and Konstantin, there is another major haunting character, but you’ll have to read it to discover it….
So, does the novel worth the hype? In my opinion, yes. Absolutely and definitely. The atmosphere and the transition of the traditional story are exceptionally constructed. Do I think it would be even better if it was written by a Russian writer? Allow me to say that yes, I believe it would. You see, there is a distinctive, haunting veil of sadness, threat and death in the Russian tradition and, while these elements are present in Arden’s work, they weren’t as tense and concise as I’d like them to be. At times, the writing became a bit too YA, a genre that I do not appreciate much. This is strictly my personal opinion, formed out of many years of familiarity with Russian Literature and Culture. However, I definitely enjoyed ‘’The Bear and the Nightingale’’ and I hope that ‘’The Girl In The Tower’’ will be equally satisfying.
Russian fairy tales are unlike any others, in my opinion.They are not simple, ‘’happily-ever-after’’ myths, but wonderfully detailed glimpses in the daily lives of people born in times gone-by and tales that hide themes that
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are relevant to our era. They contain female heroines that surpass inexplicable odds and many have ambiguous closures. There is a sadness that permeates the Russian fairy tale tradition and a fierceness, a strangely modern idea of feminism. All these features are included in Katherine Arden’s beautiful first installment of the Winternight Trilogy.This book has been sitting in my TBR for practically forever, and when the second part came to me as an ARC, I thought it was finally time to begin my journey to Lesnaya Zemlya. In a Russian village, during the late medieval times, a child is born but the mother dies. Vasya has inherited the extraordinary, otherworldly gift of her mother, along with her kind heart, her free spirit of adventure and tolerance. Vasya can see what noone else is worthy to see, but her gift puts her in danger when her father decides to wed another woman. Her name is Anna, a fundamentalist as any has ever seen in any genre in Literature, and another woman who has the ability to see ‘’demons’’. Terrified of the traces of the pagan culture in her husband’s territory, she calls for a priest to come and cast away the demons. Konstantin arrives and everything in Vasya’s life changes.
The essence of the tale is the battle between the pagan tradition and Christianity. Still, ‘’’battle’’ isn’t the right word, since this division is completely constructed by a small number of people who wish to serve their own false convictions. Before Anna came to the community, the people had found the perfect balance between the teachings of Christ and the old Russian deities and traditions. Until priests started talking of demons, fire, and eternal damnation. It’s always been a point of great discourse (and discord) in Literature and in History. In any case, Vasya, Dunya and most of the women are respectful followers of both religions. Anna cannot understand it, locked as she is in her own hallucinations and she descends into a darkness where fear and demons reign. The problem is that she takes everyone else with her.
Arden has composed a tale out of many familiar characteristics of Russian fairy tales. The well-known legend of Lord Winter and the beautiful Maiden lies at the heart of it, while we meet the Baba Yaga, the domovoi (the peaceful spirits that protect the hearth of the Russian household), the vazila, the enchanting Rusalka...The supernatural characters become the heart of the story, because the human characters, well...they’re not very interesting. Anna would make a fine couple with the Devil she so hates (although I’d pity the poor man…), Vasya’s father is a doormat and Dunya is kind and comforting, but not that original. The one who had my unwavering attention was Konstantin, the young priest. An ambiguous character, fully conflicted, dark and perplexing as he is perplexed. He desperately wants to believe and serve but in what? In whom? His interactions with Vasilisa were brilliant and very intriguing. Besides Vasya and Konstantin, there is another major haunting character, but you’ll have to read it to discover it….
So, does the novel worth the hype? In my opinion, yes. Absolutely and definitely. The atmosphere and the transition of the traditional story are exceptionally constructed. Do I think it would be even better if it was written by a Russian writer? Allow me to say that yes, I believe it would. You see, there is a distinctive, haunting veil of sadness, threat and death in the Russian tradition and, while these elements are present in Arden’s work, they weren’t as tense and concise as I’d like them to be. At times, the writing became a bit too YA, a genre that I do not appreciate much. This is strictly my personal opinion, formed out of many years of familiarity with Russian Literature and Culture. However, I definitely enjoyed ‘’The Bear and the Nightingale’’ and I hope that ‘’The Girl In The Tower’’ will be equally satisfying.
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LibraryThing member tlarkin
As with all Russian novels I have read trying to keep track of the characters is a lot of work. I found this slow going in the beginning but it picked up speed and I was quite involved by the time it was finished. I love stories with a touch of fantasy and this had that and more. It was well
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written and well narrated (which helps enormously) Show Less
LibraryThing member TadAD
In my opinion, what makes a fairy tale a fairy tale is more about tone than anything else. It has to have that sense of being about everyday life with something extra…something remembered by our is-she-all-there? grandmother…peeking in. Katherine Arden’s first novel captures that tone with
Since it’s 300+ pages long and I read this in a single sitting, you can infer that that I liked it and you would be right to some extent. I loved a tale set in what I’m guessing is around 15th century Russia. I love that even the minor characters have been fleshed out.
I didn’t love the fact that the supernatural aspect was written with less depth than the "human" portions. I didn’t love the fact that the conflict between the old beliefs and the new Christianity was given some short shrift. In all honesty, I thought it was the most interesting theme and would have been the best hook upon which to hang the entire story.
In the balance, I’d recommend it. Arden’s writing style is easy and readable and the world she conjures is entertaining.
A lot fairy tales—Grimm Brothers included—weren’t really for children until they got sanitized by later generations. This probably falls into this category as it’s fairly dark and violent.
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this story set in old Russia. I have no idea if this story is actually an old tale she is retelling or a new one she’s made up out whole cloth but it has that feel that I expect.Since it’s 300+ pages long and I read this in a single sitting, you can infer that that I liked it and you would be right to some extent. I loved a tale set in what I’m guessing is around 15th century Russia. I love that even the minor characters have been fleshed out.
I didn’t love the fact that the supernatural aspect was written with less depth than the "human" portions. I didn’t love the fact that the conflict between the old beliefs and the new Christianity was given some short shrift. In all honesty, I thought it was the most interesting theme and would have been the best hook upon which to hang the entire story.
In the balance, I’d recommend it. Arden’s writing style is easy and readable and the world she conjures is entertaining.
A lot fairy tales—Grimm Brothers included—weren’t really for children until they got sanitized by later generations. This probably falls into this category as it’s fairly dark and violent.
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LibraryThing member hemlokgang
An okay fairy/morality tale. Not my cup of tea, so probably not the best to recommend or not.
LibraryThing member ashleytylerjohn
Not bad (almost 3-star), but I'm halfway through and would rather read something I liked better than to carry on with a not-bad book that I'm starting to resent.
Halfway through, and almost nothing has happened. Oh, there's been dialogue, some marriages, a lot of horse-back riding, from time-to-time
I don't know what the book is about, yet, and I'm halfway through. It's presumably not a murder-mystery, but if it is, I'm ready for the corpse. Basically she's been setting the scene for 182 pages. (If I were God, I'd say "great, that's the backstory, now start the book). Also, presumably, it's about to get more interesting soon ... but that's what I've been saying for 182 pages.
So I'm donating it to charity, and moving on to something that's paced more to my liking. (Like Naomi Novik, who (she's on the back cover) apparently liked this, despite her books being 1000 times more interesting to me.
(Note: 5 stars = amazing, wonderful, 4 = very good book, 3 = decent read, 2 = disappointing, 1 = awful, just awful. I'm fairly good at picking for myself so end up with a lot of 4s). I feel a lot of readers automatically render any book they enjoy 5, but I grade on a curve!
Halfway through, and almost nothing has happened. Oh, there's been dialogue, some marriages, a lot of horse-back riding, from time-to-time
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someone goes to sleep, or eats something, but in terms of plot only 1 major event has occured: the father goes to the city and is given something to give to his daughter by a magical creature of some kind. And I'm halfway through the book, and the daughter still doesn't have it.I don't know what the book is about, yet, and I'm halfway through. It's presumably not a murder-mystery, but if it is, I'm ready for the corpse. Basically she's been setting the scene for 182 pages. (If I were God, I'd say "great, that's the backstory, now start the book). Also, presumably, it's about to get more interesting soon ... but that's what I've been saying for 182 pages.
So I'm donating it to charity, and moving on to something that's paced more to my liking. (Like Naomi Novik, who (she's on the back cover) apparently liked this, despite her books being 1000 times more interesting to me.
(Note: 5 stars = amazing, wonderful, 4 = very good book, 3 = decent read, 2 = disappointing, 1 = awful, just awful. I'm fairly good at picking for myself so end up with a lot of 4s). I feel a lot of readers automatically render any book they enjoy 5, but I grade on a curve!
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LibraryThing member Romonko
This book is a fantasy, but even though I don't usually read fantasy books, I wanted to read this one because of the reviews and comments I had read about it. It's lyrical and it's haunting, and it's very well-written. The setting is a very small medieval village in northern Russia. Ms. Arden has
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lived and studied (for one year) in modern Russia, where she specialized in French and Russian literature. Her knowledge of Russian folklore and history comes across in these pages. This is a book that is meant to be read in winter since Russian winters are depicted so clearly here.. In fact the winter season is connected to most of the folklore and the creatures that we meet in the book. I found the characters believable - even the mythological creatures. Vasilisa is an enchanting young woman who sees and converses with the spiritworld. She is fiery and fey and finds life with her family rather stifling. She is always wandering about exploring the world around their small home. This is a first novel for Katherine Arden, and she is a voice that many will want to hear a lot more from. Show Less
LibraryThing member mamzel
As I started this book I was glad to be tucked in under my down comforter since the images of howling winter winds and bitter cold came through all too vividly in this story. Vasya is a young girl whose mother died just after she was born. Living with an older sister, two older brothers, and her
Written in the style of a Russian folktale, we see how there was resistance to turn backs on old beliefs even when pressured by the powerful Catholic church.
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father, she was mostly on her own, barely being contained by Dunya, her nanny. She is one of the few who can see the old gods hiding in the oven, stable loft, and woods, and she talks to them and gives them treats of food. Their existence is in peril due to the presence of a rigidly religious priest who sees to the folks in the house and neighboring village. When an ancient evil wakes in the forest their survival may rest with her relationship with the old beings.Written in the style of a Russian folktale, we see how there was resistance to turn backs on old beliefs even when pressured by the powerful Catholic church.
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LibraryThing member Dokfintong
This is a cute little fairy tale with a Russian flavor. Good vs evil with a young woman at its heart. Suitable for anyone old enough to know that men and women do something in bed at night to make babies. There is no overt sex.
The book isn't so interesting for an adult reader.
I received a copy of
The book isn't so interesting for an adult reader.
I received a copy of
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"The Bear and the Nightingale" by Katherine Arden (Del Rey) through NetGalley.com. Show Less
LibraryThing member irregularreader
This was a charming, engaging story inspired by fairy tales of the Russian wilderness.
Vasya is the daughter of a Russian lord, and the granddaughter of a suspected witch. Growing up in the vast forests in the north, fireside tales of friendly spirits and dangerous imps dominate her childhood. Vasya
But something evil is stirring in the deep woods, something ancient and hungering. As the strength of the old ways wanes, it seems that Vasya may be the only one who can stop what is coming.
Fairy tale retellings are in vogue nowadays, but it is rare that an author takes the material and makes it their own. The usual fare simply regurgitates the story while incorporating an excess of teen angst. Arden manages to take the tropes of the fairy tale and make them into a story with familiar elements, but which is her own. It reminds me of the Sevenwaters books by Juliet Marillier, a compelling series based on English myth and fairy tale.
I suspect this book may be shelved in the young adult category, but it will appeal to older readers nonetheless. Fans of fantasy and magic will find a lot to like in this story. In all, this is a very strong debut novel and I look forward to Katherine Arden’s future work.
An advance ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The Bear and the Nightingale will be available for purchase on January 10th, 2017.
Vasya is the daughter of a Russian lord, and the granddaughter of a suspected witch. Growing up in the vast forests in the north, fireside tales of friendly spirits and dangerous imps dominate her childhood. Vasya
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knows to leave offerings for the guardian spirits of her home and stables, to placate the water demons and to pay obeisance to the guardians of the forest. When her father marries a high born woman from Moscow, the folk traditions of Vasya’s youth are branded as heresy and witchcraft, and the orthodox church forbids any practice of the old ways.But something evil is stirring in the deep woods, something ancient and hungering. As the strength of the old ways wanes, it seems that Vasya may be the only one who can stop what is coming.
Fairy tale retellings are in vogue nowadays, but it is rare that an author takes the material and makes it their own. The usual fare simply regurgitates the story while incorporating an excess of teen angst. Arden manages to take the tropes of the fairy tale and make them into a story with familiar elements, but which is her own. It reminds me of the Sevenwaters books by Juliet Marillier, a compelling series based on English myth and fairy tale.
I suspect this book may be shelved in the young adult category, but it will appeal to older readers nonetheless. Fans of fantasy and magic will find a lot to like in this story. In all, this is a very strong debut novel and I look forward to Katherine Arden’s future work.
An advance ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The Bear and the Nightingale will be available for purchase on January 10th, 2017.
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LibraryThing member nikkinmichaels
Sometimes you read a book, and you know beyond the shadow of a doubt that the author was born to tell stories. THE BEAR AND THE NIGHTINGALE is one of those books, and Katherine Arden is one of those authors. This novel is transcendently, spellbindingly gorgeous.
LibraryThing member titania86
Vasilisa grew up at the edge of the Russian wilderness where the weather is harsh and cold for most of the year. Winters are particularly cruel, but she has many pleasant memories of her siblings and her nurse by the fire telling fairy tales to pass the time. Since her mother died in childbirth,
The Bear and the Nightingale is a wonderful merging of Russian society as it adapts to Christianity and Russian folklore. The very beginning has Vasya's nurse Danya telling her fairy tales of the cruel winter and how humility and kindness get you further than selfishness. I wasn't quite drawn in until Vasya sees and interacts with the domovoi in her house. The people that live near the Russian wilderness, away from big cities, believe in Christianity and go to church, but also pay tribute to their house spirits or domovoi more out of habit than anything. Unbeknowst to most of them, these gifts of food and drink help them immensely by extending the use of resources and keeping crops and cattle healthy. Once these creatures are shunned due to the fire and brimstone antics of Father Konstantin striking fear into the villagers' hearts. Now, the domovoi have weakened, leaving the humans with dwindling resources and mounting fear, unaware of the supernatural danger their spirits protect them from.
Everyone knew Vasilisa was different right from birth. As she grew up, she realized she could see and understand the domovoi and other creatures right out of her nurse's fairy tales. Over time, she learns to care for and respect them. Through her friendship and tribute, they respect her in return and teach her how to move silently through the forest and how to talk to horses. As she grows into womanhood, Vasya keeps her sweet nature entwined with a wildness and confidence that others find troubling. Vasya is an amazing character that does what she can, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Her perseverence proves to be unshakeable even in the face of the disapproval of her whole town. Unfortunately, her only future paths are in the prison of either marriage or a convent. Her access to the supernatural world helps her break out of her social norms. The supernatural forces she faces are out of her realm of reality and understanding, but it doesnt stop her from fighting for her family and her town anyway.
The only other person with any knowledge at all that fairy tale creatures are real is Anna, Vasya's stepmother. She fits into the evil stepmother trope well, but she's more fleshed out than that. Everyone around her assumes she's crazy because she sees what she assumes are demons everywhere. She's basically Vasilisa, but intent on ignoring the creatures instead of getting to know them. Her existence throughout life is tortured because no matter how devout she is or how hard she prays, these demons plague her. Instead of trying to educate Vasya, Anna simply abuses her whenever Vasya acknowledges the domovoi. I had sympathy for her because she doesn't understand her situation and feels constantly attacked. However, she lost my sympathy when she decided to abuse her stepdaughter and taking everything she can away from her. This character shows how Vasya could have been had her temperament or upbringing or attitude been different.
The Bear and the Nightingale is a wonderful book that I couldn't put down. The fairy tale elements are woven in throughout, contrasting with the real world woes of the townspeople. Vasya interacts with many figures from Russian fairy tales using her knowledge of their tales and her generous nature. It takes a little while to hold my interest, but once it does, it doesn't let go. Katherine Arden is amazing and I would love to read whatever she writes next. This book is highly recommended to fans of Neil Gaiman or fairy tale literature.
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her father goes to Moscow to present his sons to royalty and find a new wife. He brings home Anna, a young woman from a royal family who is also notorious for seeing demons everywhere. She and Vasilisa butt heads immediately because Vasya sees creatures as well, but knows they are house spirits or domovoi that make their lives easier in exchange for tribute. The arrival of a fiery priest Kostantin creates fear of hell and damnation in her town and causes other people to shun their domovoi, which causes further misfortune and weakens them to the attack of sinister forces.The Bear and the Nightingale is a wonderful merging of Russian society as it adapts to Christianity and Russian folklore. The very beginning has Vasya's nurse Danya telling her fairy tales of the cruel winter and how humility and kindness get you further than selfishness. I wasn't quite drawn in until Vasya sees and interacts with the domovoi in her house. The people that live near the Russian wilderness, away from big cities, believe in Christianity and go to church, but also pay tribute to their house spirits or domovoi more out of habit than anything. Unbeknowst to most of them, these gifts of food and drink help them immensely by extending the use of resources and keeping crops and cattle healthy. Once these creatures are shunned due to the fire and brimstone antics of Father Konstantin striking fear into the villagers' hearts. Now, the domovoi have weakened, leaving the humans with dwindling resources and mounting fear, unaware of the supernatural danger their spirits protect them from.
Everyone knew Vasilisa was different right from birth. As she grew up, she realized she could see and understand the domovoi and other creatures right out of her nurse's fairy tales. Over time, she learns to care for and respect them. Through her friendship and tribute, they respect her in return and teach her how to move silently through the forest and how to talk to horses. As she grows into womanhood, Vasya keeps her sweet nature entwined with a wildness and confidence that others find troubling. Vasya is an amazing character that does what she can, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Her perseverence proves to be unshakeable even in the face of the disapproval of her whole town. Unfortunately, her only future paths are in the prison of either marriage or a convent. Her access to the supernatural world helps her break out of her social norms. The supernatural forces she faces are out of her realm of reality and understanding, but it doesnt stop her from fighting for her family and her town anyway.
The only other person with any knowledge at all that fairy tale creatures are real is Anna, Vasya's stepmother. She fits into the evil stepmother trope well, but she's more fleshed out than that. Everyone around her assumes she's crazy because she sees what she assumes are demons everywhere. She's basically Vasilisa, but intent on ignoring the creatures instead of getting to know them. Her existence throughout life is tortured because no matter how devout she is or how hard she prays, these demons plague her. Instead of trying to educate Vasya, Anna simply abuses her whenever Vasya acknowledges the domovoi. I had sympathy for her because she doesn't understand her situation and feels constantly attacked. However, she lost my sympathy when she decided to abuse her stepdaughter and taking everything she can away from her. This character shows how Vasya could have been had her temperament or upbringing or attitude been different.
The Bear and the Nightingale is a wonderful book that I couldn't put down. The fairy tale elements are woven in throughout, contrasting with the real world woes of the townspeople. Vasya interacts with many figures from Russian fairy tales using her knowledge of their tales and her generous nature. It takes a little while to hold my interest, but once it does, it doesn't let go. Katherine Arden is amazing and I would love to read whatever she writes next. This book is highly recommended to fans of Neil Gaiman or fairy tale literature.
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LibraryThing member yoyogod
This is a fairly interesting fantasy. The medieval Russian setting is underused (though not unheard of) in fantasy, and the look into Russian folklore is fascinating. I even found the characterizations (even of the less sympathetic characters) to be outstanding.However, the pacing is so awful that
First we see the main character be born. The we see her carefree childhood where she is a bit on the wild side, which causes her father to remarry. Due to political machinations from Moscow, he is forced to marry a deeply religious woman with the sight(who really wanted to join a convent), and consequent mental problems from seeing the Russian fairies. Then more political machinations cause a popular and handsome priest to be sent from Moscow, and he soon preaches against the local spirits and people neglect them, which causes ancient, evil forces to awaken (which is a plot device that is overused in modern fantasy). Then it just keeps dragging on and on with things slowly getting worse until suddenly things happen and we reach a resolution.
Overall, I found the book a bit of a chore to read, but I expect other people will enjoy it more. It's not a terrible book, but it's far too slow paced for me to recommend it to anyone.
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I just can't give the book a high rating. There is no real action in the book until about the last fifty pages. Before that, everything moves at such a glacial pace that I had to force myself to keep reading, so as to be able to write this review. First we see the main character be born. The we see her carefree childhood where she is a bit on the wild side, which causes her father to remarry. Due to political machinations from Moscow, he is forced to marry a deeply religious woman with the sight(who really wanted to join a convent), and consequent mental problems from seeing the Russian fairies. Then more political machinations cause a popular and handsome priest to be sent from Moscow, and he soon preaches against the local spirits and people neglect them, which causes ancient, evil forces to awaken (which is a plot device that is overused in modern fantasy). Then it just keeps dragging on and on with things slowly getting worse until suddenly things happen and we reach a resolution.
Overall, I found the book a bit of a chore to read, but I expect other people will enjoy it more. It's not a terrible book, but it's far too slow paced for me to recommend it to anyone.
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LibraryThing member bookczuk
The Bear and the Nightingale is a lovely blend of fantasy and fairy tale, with a strong female lead facing not just the challenges of society, but those of nature and myth, too. As with other books built on Slavic legend, there was a bit of familiarity to those of Ukraine, with a slight
Thanks to LibraryThing and the publisher for sending this copy my way.
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difference, like the tartness of a crab apple to a Pippin plucked fully ripe from the tree. I was singularly surprised , but not disappointed, when the elements I expected or anticipated didn't play out. Arden did a good job at capturing the ugliness of crowd mentality in the townspeople, depicting personalities of the jealous and disappointed, relating the interplay of that which we delegate to fantasy with real life, and showing different sorts and strength of love. Overall, I enjoyed this book and will look for more by this author.Thanks to LibraryThing and the publisher for sending this copy my way.
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LibraryThing member myorangekiss
This was an absolutely beautiful book that I did not want to end. I have to say that even though I had a bit of a rough start at the beginning of this book being that it had a lot of Russian words I'd never seen before that kind of stumped me, once I found the glossary in the back of the book, I
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sped right through the story. This is not your typical "fairy tale" type novel. The words that the author chose are so descriptive it's as if you're a ghost walking right beside Vasya through her journeys in this book. The story is one of hope, love, kindness, devotion, courage, and passion. Vasya's family is a close knit one. Vasya was a "different" child, and everyone knew that from her youth. She grew up in a small village environment with lots of brothers and a sister, and a nurse that told her lovely "fable" stories, one of which she will end up finding out for herself if it truly is real, or if her mind is falling to illusions, and will end up determining the uncertain fate of her family. I don't want to say much more because I really want you to read this book for yourself. It is truly a wonderful, spell-binding read that will have your imagination soaring. This is definitely a book I will read more than once and one I will share with everyone that loves to read as much as I do. Show Less
LibraryThing member Beamis12
Medieval Russia, though it is called only Rus, Russia not yet an entity, the fourteenth century, and a young woman who has inherited the sight of her Royal ancestor. Exquisitely written, brilliant and evocative imagery, fully fleshed characters and a fantastic rendering of the history of this time
When a priest Konstantine, comes unwillingly to the village, he decides the people and their old ways and beliefs are an affront to God. That stirs up things better left sleeping, and Vasya will eventually have to intercede with great peril to her life. Vasya is a young woman who can see what most cannot, who can speak to those most cannot and embraces what is known and unknown. Such a wonderful job is done with the sights and sounds, the daily living of those during this time period, from the reaches of Moscow to this village where Vasya lives with her family. The fires, the dangers in the woods, the huge stove the family sleeps on when it is too cold, the author had to have immersed herself not only in this time period but in the old legends and fairy tales.
So different from what I normally read, not a big fantasy fan and I am not sure if this qualifies as fantasy, more a fairy tale with a side of historical fiction. The author never loses sight of the main narrative despite all the strange happenings and I found that amazing. In short I loved this story.
ARC from publisher.
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period, seamlessly woven with the myths and folklore of Russian lore. The first half, the cold, what can be seen by a few but not by most of the ancient creatures that guard the homes forest, the horses., reminded me a little of the Snow Child.When a priest Konstantine, comes unwillingly to the village, he decides the people and their old ways and beliefs are an affront to God. That stirs up things better left sleeping, and Vasya will eventually have to intercede with great peril to her life. Vasya is a young woman who can see what most cannot, who can speak to those most cannot and embraces what is known and unknown. Such a wonderful job is done with the sights and sounds, the daily living of those during this time period, from the reaches of Moscow to this village where Vasya lives with her family. The fires, the dangers in the woods, the huge stove the family sleeps on when it is too cold, the author had to have immersed herself not only in this time period but in the old legends and fairy tales.
So different from what I normally read, not a big fantasy fan and I am not sure if this qualifies as fantasy, more a fairy tale with a side of historical fiction. The author never loses sight of the main narrative despite all the strange happenings and I found that amazing. In short I loved this story.
ARC from publisher.
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LibraryThing member Carolesrandomlife
I enjoyed this fairy tale of a story. I did have a difficult time really getting into the story and I am not entirely sure why. Once I became hooked on the story, I couldn't find out what would happen next fast enough. It was at times a slow moving story even though things always seemed to be
I have seen some descriptions of this story that indicate that this is a re-telling of an old story. I am honestly not well versed in Russian folklore so this story is completely new to me but the underlying fairy tale feel was present throughout the novel. This was a story filled with magic, bravery, and things unexpected. I didn't even have a guess regarding what would eventually happen in this story and it was exciting to watch things unfold.
The story focuses on Vasilisa, or Vasya. Vasya's mother died shortly after her birth so she spends the early years of her life being raised by her father and her nurse along with her sister and three brothers. Vasya is a bit of a wild child spending most of her time in the woods and speaking with the local spirits. Eventually, her father does decide to marry again and comes back from Moscow with a new wife. Vasya's new step-mother is also able to see the local spirits but instead of embracing this skill she fears it and wants the spirits to leave.
I liked Vasya a lot. She was brave throughout the story even when it caused things to be difficult in her life. She always seemed to think about the welfare of others. She trys to honor her families wishes even when she knows that it will cause her tolose the ability to do the things that bring her joy. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this story. Vasya's father tried hard to make the best decisions for her and he did care deeply for her. Her brothers were all very different but they all cared for and supported Vasya in their own way. Her step-mother and the priest were not nearly as likeable but they did add a new element to the story.
I would recommend this book to others. It is such a captivating story told in a wonderful manner. The story is highly imaginative and filled with details that bring it to life. I believe that this is the first book of a planned trilogy and I can't wait to read more of this incredible tale.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Del Ray via NetGalley.
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happening. The descriptions in the story were incredibly vivid. This was the kind of story that will stay with me for some time.I have seen some descriptions of this story that indicate that this is a re-telling of an old story. I am honestly not well versed in Russian folklore so this story is completely new to me but the underlying fairy tale feel was present throughout the novel. This was a story filled with magic, bravery, and things unexpected. I didn't even have a guess regarding what would eventually happen in this story and it was exciting to watch things unfold.
The story focuses on Vasilisa, or Vasya. Vasya's mother died shortly after her birth so she spends the early years of her life being raised by her father and her nurse along with her sister and three brothers. Vasya is a bit of a wild child spending most of her time in the woods and speaking with the local spirits. Eventually, her father does decide to marry again and comes back from Moscow with a new wife. Vasya's new step-mother is also able to see the local spirits but instead of embracing this skill she fears it and wants the spirits to leave.
I liked Vasya a lot. She was brave throughout the story even when it caused things to be difficult in her life. She always seemed to think about the welfare of others. She trys to honor her families wishes even when she knows that it will cause her tolose the ability to do the things that bring her joy. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this story. Vasya's father tried hard to make the best decisions for her and he did care deeply for her. Her brothers were all very different but they all cared for and supported Vasya in their own way. Her step-mother and the priest were not nearly as likeable but they did add a new element to the story.
I would recommend this book to others. It is such a captivating story told in a wonderful manner. The story is highly imaginative and filled with details that bring it to life. I believe that this is the first book of a planned trilogy and I can't wait to read more of this incredible tale.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Del Ray via NetGalley.
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LibraryThing member JJbooklvr
I was not very familiar with Russian myths and folktales before I read this book so this was a learning experience for me. One I enjoyed immensely. The story just captivated me and pulled me into that world. I loved the characters and the slow build of the story. The last third really kicks in and
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had me on edge as I raced to see what was going to happen next. The main story wraps up nicely but leaves enough open for more and as I recently found out there are two more books planned in this series. Katherine Arden is definitely a writer to put on your list in the way she can spin a magical story and make you experience all the emotions of the characters. I just hope it is not a long wait until the next book in the series. Show Less
LibraryThing member KateBaxter
Wow; such a great story and beautifully written! I was thoroughly transported back to medieval and primeval Rus' - a land steeped in folklore, mythic creatures and very cold winter nights. Author Katherine Arden deftly writes in a strongly descriptive and painterly style. She maneuvers the reader
I am grateful to publisher Ballantine Books and Goodreads First Reads for having provided a free advance reader edition of this book. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Synopsis (from book's back cover):
A magical debut novel for readers of Naomi Novik’s Uprooted, Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus, and Neil Gaiman’s myth-rich fantasies, The Bear and the Nightingale spins an irresistible spell as it announces the arrival of a singular talent with a gorgeous voice.
At the edge of the Russian wilderness, winter lasts most of the year and the snowdrifts grow taller than houses. But Vasilisa doesn’t mind—she spends the winter nights huddled around the embers of a fire with her beloved siblings, listening to her nurse’s fairy tales. Above all, she loves the chilling story of Frost, the blue-eyed winter demon, who appears in the frigid night to claim unwary souls. Wise Russians fear him, her nurse says, and honor the spirits of house and yard and forest that protect their homes from evil.
After Vasilisa’s mother dies, her father goes to Moscow and brings home a new wife. Fiercely devout, city-bred, Vasilisa’s new stepmother forbids her family from honoring the household spirits. The family acquiesces, but Vasilisa is frightened, sensing that more hinges upon their rituals than anyone knows.
And indeed, crops begin to fail, evil creatures of the forest creep nearer, and misfortune stalks the village. All the while, Vasilisa’s stepmother grows ever harsher in her determination to groom her rebellious stepdaughter for either marriage or confinement in a convent.
As danger circles nearer, Vasilisa must defy even the people she loves and call on dangerous gifts she has long concealed—this, in order to protect her family from a threat that seems to have stepped from her nurse’s most frightening tales.
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through illusion, reality and the supernatural. She sparks the imagination and eeks out the readers' empathy for young heroine, Vasya - a young woman strong in character and eager to defend those whom she loves against the rising hunger of evil dwelling in the shadows. It's a magical place and the writing is exquisite. Who says that we're too old for a great fairy tale?!I am grateful to publisher Ballantine Books and Goodreads First Reads for having provided a free advance reader edition of this book. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Synopsis (from book's back cover):
A magical debut novel for readers of Naomi Novik’s Uprooted, Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus, and Neil Gaiman’s myth-rich fantasies, The Bear and the Nightingale spins an irresistible spell as it announces the arrival of a singular talent with a gorgeous voice.
At the edge of the Russian wilderness, winter lasts most of the year and the snowdrifts grow taller than houses. But Vasilisa doesn’t mind—she spends the winter nights huddled around the embers of a fire with her beloved siblings, listening to her nurse’s fairy tales. Above all, she loves the chilling story of Frost, the blue-eyed winter demon, who appears in the frigid night to claim unwary souls. Wise Russians fear him, her nurse says, and honor the spirits of house and yard and forest that protect their homes from evil.
After Vasilisa’s mother dies, her father goes to Moscow and brings home a new wife. Fiercely devout, city-bred, Vasilisa’s new stepmother forbids her family from honoring the household spirits. The family acquiesces, but Vasilisa is frightened, sensing that more hinges upon their rituals than anyone knows.
And indeed, crops begin to fail, evil creatures of the forest creep nearer, and misfortune stalks the village. All the while, Vasilisa’s stepmother grows ever harsher in her determination to groom her rebellious stepdaughter for either marriage or confinement in a convent.
As danger circles nearer, Vasilisa must defy even the people she loves and call on dangerous gifts she has long concealed—this, in order to protect her family from a threat that seems to have stepped from her nurse’s most frightening tales.
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LibraryThing member Nightwing
A fabulous retelling of a lesser-known folk talk. Set in the cold of a Russian winter, it will warm your heart as it captures your attention.
LibraryThing member c.archer
This is a delightful fairy tale for adults. I would liken it somewhat to The Snow Child, by Eowyn Ivey. Both include magical forest creatures and extra-ordinary children who can communicate with animals. Both as well are inspired by Russian fairy tales. The Bear and the Nightingale is a perfect
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read for someone wanting to escape from everyday life and enter an exotic long ago world of snow and fantasy. Show Less
LibraryThing member pennma05
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! When I first heard about this book I figured that I would really like it but I ended up loving it. I was completely engrossed in it almost from page one. I felt really connected to Vasya and loved
Wow! When I first heard about this book I figured that I would really like it but I ended up loving it. I was completely engrossed in it almost from page one. I felt really connected to Vasya and loved
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seeing her grow as a person and become who she was destined to be. Vasya's brothers, especially Sasha and Alyosha, were so endearing. I really loved seeing them stick up for their little sister when everyone else seemed to think her a crazed heathen. Konstantin, the priest, actually freaked me out a little bit. The way he tended to watch Vasya and follow her gave me chills sometimes. There were so many times that I wanted to slap Anna Ivanovna across the face. She definitely fit well into the evil stepmother role. I loved all of the elements of the Russian folk and fairy tales that made up this novel. It was really interesting to also read the author's note at the end to read about how she went about transliterating the Russian words to English. There is also a helpful glossary in the back for those who are unfamiliar with Russian terms. This is a book that I will be purchasing a hardcover copy of to add to my home library. Show Less
LibraryThing member bookappeal
I wanted to like this book. I alternated listening and reading and, while the writing is beautiful, the plot moves too slowly and repetitively. Apparently, this is a retelling of a very old tale of which I have no knowledge. The characters are referred to either by a full name, a shortened name, or
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a beloved nickname (e.g., Vasilisa, Vasya, Vasochka) which did not help in the beginning when trying to keep all the characters straight and make sense of where the story was headed. This book is being compared to Uprooted by Naomi Novik but it has none of the intensity of that story, except for a few chapters at the end. The storyline plods along without much development. The author absolutely succeeds in creating atmosphere and a few appealing characters but the plot simply does not sustain them. Show Less
Awards
Locus Award (Finalist — First Novel — 2018)
Grand Canyon Reader Award (Nominee — Teen — 2021)
Vermont Book Award (Finalist — Fiction — 2018)
Grand Prix de l'Imaginaire (Shortlist — 2021)
Los Angeles Public Library Best of the Year (Fiction — 2017)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2017-01-10
Physical description
5.67 inches
ISBN
178503104X / 9781785031045
Local notes
In a village at the edge of the wilderness of northern Russia, where the winds blow cold and the snow falls many months of the year, an elderly servant tells stories of sorcery, folklore and the Winter King to the children of the family, tales of old magic frowned upon by the church. But for the young, wild Vasya these are far more than just stories. She alone can see the house spirits that guard her home, and sense the growing forces of dark magic in the woods.
Atmospheric and enchanting.
Atmospheric and enchanting.