Bear Wings

The Wings, Book 1

Young Adult - Fantasy - General
284 Pages
Reviewed on 12/21/2024
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Olga Markova for Readers' Favorite

Bear Wings: The Wings, Book 1 by River Linnsight is a wonderful fantasy that transports readers to a fantastical world as they follow a sad orphan boy whose favorite toy polar bear suddenly comes to life and takes him on an adventure. The boy and the bear reach a golden beach, and the boy goes for a swim in the ocean. Before the boy realizes it, he swims too far away from the shore and eventually is rescued by a pirate ship with animal-headed pirates, but only to be taken to the kitchen to be cooked. The zebra chef rescues the boy and lets him sail away on a small boat. What lies ahead for the boy on a small boat in the ocean? Will he find his way back to the golden beach and his favorite bear?

Bear Wings by River Linnsight is one of the most magical and heartwarming fantasies I have read since Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials. I liked the adventures the boy braved and the magical creatures he met in the fantasy world. I also liked the absolutely magical illustrations by the author. But most of all, I liked the thought-provoking questions; for example, where sorrows and fears go and what the meaning of change is. As I look forward to the sequel, I highly recommend this brilliant tale to fantasy fans, both young and adult. The sophisticated vocabulary may feel challenging for some young readers, but the author has included a fantastic, magical glossary at the end of the book. I hope to discover these in the sequel.

Luwi Nyakansaila

Bear Wings by River Linnsight is an enchanting story that follows a young boy who enters a dreamscape filled with magical wonders and profound lessons. His guide is Snowy, a majestic polar bear, from whom he unfortunately becomes separated. Left to face the unknown alone, the boy braves the seas, encountering pirates and fairies, and eventually lands on an island. There, he learns about the four bears that guard the corners of the world and deduces that one of them is Snowy. Realizing that the only way to return home is to find him, the boy embarks on an adventure. However, his journey is not smooth sailing; he must traverse cold lands, magical forests, streams of cream, and fierce waters. Throughout his quest, he learns to confront his fears and embrace both the light and darkness within himself. Join this young boy on his journey of growth and self-discovery and explore the thin line between reality and dreams.

Bear Wings is the first book in The Wings series by River Linnsight, and it is one of the most magical books I have ever read. The picturesque descriptions of the imaginative world and creatures like griffins and ogres make the reader feel as if they are experiencing the dreamscape alongside the boy. The author skillfully weaves deep moral lessons into the narrative about kindness, repentance, embracing one’s true self, and cherishing every moment. This tale of transformation highlights the different stages of life, from childhood innocence and joy to the complexities and challenges that come with growing up. With each trial, the boy becomes stronger and braver, and it is beautiful to witness. The illustrations complement the story, providing readers with a visual treat. Overall, this is a captivating start to the series, seamlessly blending adventure and introspection, and it is a must-read for all fans of fantasy tales.

Courtnee Turner Hoyle

Bear Wings is the first book in The Wings series by River Linnsight. The story begins with a well-worn toy polar bear named Snowy, who comes to life during the night and awakens a boy, beckoning him into a magical, dream-like land. The boy follows Snowy but soon bumps into a crew of animalistic pirates, only to lose sight of his bear and begin a quest to locate him. His journey leads him to the North, East, South, and West Bears and their kingdoms, where he faces challenges from griffins, ogres, and hippogriffs. The boy encounters many helpful beings and undergoes challenges that test his critical thinking and grit. He must tackle fear and hope, learning valuable lessons from his mistakes and growing in confidence with each challenge. However, a rash decision may end the boy's quest before it truly begins.

River Linnsight is a true wordsmith whose eloquent words create a tale that will capture your heart and resonate with you long after the last page. Bear Wings is an adventure showing themes of adaptation, bravery, resilience, and courage. The impressive illustrations make the work more vivid for readers, adding a visual dimension to the enchanting story. Linnsight weaves a lovely tale of peace and unity through conflict, with talking animals and mythical creatures presenting gifts, riddles, and advice, as well as stories to guide the boy. The boy grows wise beyond his years, possessing a maturity many never attain, and discovers the meaning of the Flower-of-a-Thousand-Dreams. His adventure not only heals the division in the forest but also something within himself. The book is filled with lovely language and includes a glossary. Readers who enjoy tales of adventure, resilience, courage, and personal growth will be captivated by Bear Wings.

Richard Prause

Bear Wings by River Linnsight tells the story of a sleeping boy overwhelmed with sadness and loneliness. He huddles in bed with his beloved stuffed polar bear toy. The boy's room, once a place of laughter and adventure, is now devoid of imagination and joy. Suddenly, he is woken by a gentle touch on his shoulder. Snowy, his toy bear, beckons him on a magical adventure. Immediately, a peculiar door materializes in his room, guiding him to a path of unknown wonders. The boy steps through the door and is whisked away into a surreal land where unimaginable adventures await him. He encounters deep oceans, fierce pirates, a strange island, an enchanting Fairy Queen, and an enigmatic forest filled with mystical creatures. The boy goes on a quest to locate his toy bear and find a way back home. Along the way, he remembers the Fairy Queen's warnings of formidable trials that lie ahead.

From the moment I started reading this captivating children's novel, I found it hard to put down until I finished reading it. River Linnsight's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy to get lost in the magical world that encompasses the main character. This novel is a beautiful combination of reality, fantasy, and adventure. The plot reminds me of a cross between Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, Harry Potter, and The Chronicles of Narnia. The themes explored are thought-provoking and will linger in your mind long after you finish reading. The storyline creatively explores existential topics like loss, despair, bravery, fear, hope, and doubt, using the boy's perception of himself and the world around him. There is intense depth in every page that will make you ponder the meaning of life, the power of imagination, and the potential adventures that await us in life once we are courageous enough to embrace new and unexplored possibilities. Bear Wings is a quick read that fantasy lovers can digest in one sitting.