To Cook a Bear: A Novel [B1557]

2021 PB in nice clean condition. An International Bestseller. A Sunday Times Uk Best Book of the Year. Shortlisted for the CWA Crime Fiction in Translation Award. "So much to relish here . . . and the writing is just lovely!"-Diane Setterfield. A fantastic tale set in the far north of Sweden in 1852 following a runaway Sami boy and his mentor, the famous pastor Laestadius, as they investigate a murder in their village along with the mysteries of life.

Jussi, a runaway, becomes Laestadius's faithful son and disciple, and the two set out on botanical treks filled with philosophical discussions where Jussi learns all about plants and nature; and also how to read and write and about spirituality. But their quiet days are interrupted when a maid goes missing in the forest. When she is found dead, the locals suspect a predatory bear is at large. The constable is quick to offer a reward for capturing it, but Laestadius sees other traces that point to a far worse killer on the loose. After another maid is severely injured, Jussi and the pastor work to track down the murderer, unaware of the evil that is closing in on them. For it is revivalist times, and impassioned faith spreads like wildfire among the locals. While Laestadius's powerful Sunday sermons grant salvation to farmers and workers, they gain him enemies among local rulers, who see profits dwindle as people choose revival over alcohol. A completely absorbing and unforgettable novel, To Cook a Bear both entertains and burrows deep down into the great philosophical questions of life.

From recent Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "The first book I have read mentioning Sami people. The characters of Lars Levi and Jussi are so richly drawn and their relationship so deep and full of kindness. The story is vivid, full of colorful characters, incidences that are moving, sometimes traumatic and sorrowful. From it you learn about life in this harsh environment. An unusual tale, full of interest and atmosphere."; "This book had me hooked from the first page! Mikael Noemi's writing is so poetic and rich, he makes you feel that you are there, in Tornedalen with Jussi and his priest. I loved the visual language in this book and how beautiful it was, even when describing the most horrible violence. A book for everyone who loves a good Nordic noir!"; "This book was bought for me last Christmas and only when I saw recently it had been adapted for TV did I remember and read it. I found it fascinating and beautifully written but it had many parts that are dark, violent, and gruesome so I'll be selective with who I recommend to read it. The setting in historical fiction worked so well and I appreciated the additional chapters that discussed/explained this more. I do recommend but with the caveat that there are some tough lines and judgments within the pages."; "Such a cozy interesting read. Relating with characters set two hindered years ago is my favorite feeling."