Rain-Maiden and the Bear-Man: And Other Stories

Easterine Kires' stories blend magic and reality, exploring human connection and the boundaries between the two. The title story revolves around a bear-man who finds love with a rain-maiden but believes he is not good enough. The other stories are oral narratives from the people of Nagaland, India, depicting the natural and spiritual world harmoniously coexisting until the recent past. Illustrated by Sunandini Banerjee, the stories bring Nagaland to life.

Format: Hardback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2021
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

Easterine Kires' stories transport readers to a realm where magic and reality intertwine, creating enchanting folktales that explore the profound essence of human connection. The title story, "The Bear-man," delves into the poignant tale of a man trapped by the definitions imposed on him by others. Despite finding love with the beautiful and compassionate Rain-maiden, he believes he is unworthy of her affection. Concluding that his true feelings would be met with ridicule, he hardens his heart and becomes gruff and antisocial, resigning himself to a life devoid of friendship and love.

However, the other stories in this collection offer a different perspective. They are oral narratives from the people of Nagaland in northeast India, passed down privately around a glowing hearth during storytelling sessions. These spirit stories, vetted by the narrators as true encounters, captivate the reader with their vivid imagery and captivating narratives. "Forest Song," "New Road," "River and Earth Story," and "The Man Who Lost His Spirit" were shared with the author by local storytellers, while "The Man Who Went to Heaven" and "One Day" are entirely based on Naga folktales.

"The Weretigerman" weaves a captivating tale around the pre-Christian Naga tradition of certain men becoming dual-souled with the tiger. Through her vivid portrayal of both the natural and spiritual world, Kire brings Nagaland to life, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of these two realms until recent times.

The illustrations by graphic artist Sunandini Banerjee add an extra layer of depth and beauty to the stories, bringing the characters and landscapes to life with vibrant colors and intricate details. Each page is a testament to Kire's storytelling prowess and the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland.

In these tales, Kire explores themes of identity, love, and the search for belonging. She challenges societal expectations and encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and true selves. The Bear-man's journey of self-discovery and the triumph of love over societal norms inspire hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

The oral narratives from Nagaland offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures and traditions. They showcase the wisdom, resilience, and creativity of the people, passed down through generations. The spirit stories, with their vivid imagery and captivating narratives, transport readers to a world where magic and reality coexist, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all things.

Easterine Kires' stories are a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to transcend boundaries and connect people across cultures. They offer a glimpse into the depths of the human experience and remind us of the importance of empathy, compassion, and the pursuit of true love. Whether you are drawn to the magic of the natural world or the complexities of human relationships, these stories will leave you enchanted and inspired.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 161 x 198 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857426185