Dreaming the Bear
on Goodreads (405)
What’s inside...
Darcy, recovering from an illness at her parents' cabin in the snowy wilderness of Yellowstone National Park, finds herself befriending a grizzly bear during a heavy snowstorm. As they form an unexpected bond, Darcy navigates the complexities of her life, surrounded by the natural beauty and challenges of the wild. This young adult novel highlights themes of companionship, survival, and personal growth, making it a captivating read for those who love nature and unique, heartfelt stories. Darcy’s dad, a naturalist, moves their family from England to Yellowstone National Park. While her family thrives, Darcy misses her friends and civilization. As she grows weaker from illness and experiences strange dreams, she encounters an injured mother bear whose cubs were killed by hunters. Despite the bear's powerful presence, it forms a bond with Darcy, who realizes she must help the bear even as she struggles with her own health.
Age
0-15
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Darcy
Discussion points
How do you think Darcy felt when she moved to a new place? Have you ever felt the same way?
What do you think the bear symbolizes in Darcy's journey? What do you think it teaches us?
How did Darcy's relationship with the bear change her perspective on her own health and challenges?
Why is it important to understand and respect wildlife like the bear in the story?
What did you learn about courage and resilience from Darcy's adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own feelings about the book's setting and characters to make your child feel comfortable expressing their thoughts. Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Darcy’s shoes to deepen their understanding of her emotions and choices. Highlight the importance of empathy and resilience as you discuss Darcy's interactions with the bear and other characters. Use descriptive scenes from the book to ask your child how they visualized certain moments or how it made them feel. Finish your discussion by asking your child what they would do differently if they were in Darcy's place, fostering critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The protagonist, Darcy, develops a deep connection with a bear while battling her own illness. This bond helps her understand and empathize with the bear's struggles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to put themselves in others' shoes, understanding that everyone has their own battles, fostering compassion in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Darcy's journey of recovery from her illness, paralleled with the bear’s survival, showcases the power of resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to remain resilient and determined, even when facing their own challenges, whether at school or in personal situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of Nature and Wildlife Conservation
Explanation: Through Darcy's eyes, readers experience the beauty of the natural world and the necessity of preserving it, mirrored by her care for the bear.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and appreciate the natural world around them and understand the importance of conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: Healing Power of Connection
Explanation: The emotional bond between Darcy and the bear not only aids the bear's recovery but also supports Darcy's own healing process, showing how caring for others can be therapeutic.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children about the mutual benefits of caring for others, which can be applied in relationships with pets, friends, and family.
Example Lesson: Coping with Loneliness
Explanation: Isolated in a new, remote environment, Darcy initially struggles with loneliness. Her interaction with the bear provides her with a sense of purpose and companionship.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that reaching out and forging connections can be a powerful antidote to feelings of loneliness or displacement.