To Cook a Bear

To Cook a Bear is a 2015 novel by Sara Niemi that was longlisted for the CWA International Dagger. It is set in 1852 in Sweden's far north, deep in the Arctic Circle, and follows the story of charismatic preacher and Revivalist Lars Levi Læstadius and his young disciple, Jussi. When a milkmaid goes missing, the locals suspect a predatory bear is at large, but Læstadius and Jussi find clues that point to a far worse killer on the loose. The novel explores how communities turn inwards, how superstition can turn to violence, and how the power of language can be transformative. It has received critical acclaim for its gripping plot, beautiful writing, and its exploration of themes of morality, faith, and the nature of evil.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2021
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

So much to savor here! The plot is gripping, and the writing is just lovely! DIANE SETTERFIELD, author of Once Upon A River, has created a remarkable tale that will captivate readers from start to finish.

The year's most memorable narrator, Jussi, is a young Sami boy rescued from destitution and abuse by charismatic preacher Lars Levi Læstadius. Læstadius imparts valuable lessons to Jussi, including the importance of reading, writing, and loving and fearing God. As they embark on botanical treks to explore the flora and fauna, Jussi becomes Læstadius's faithful disciple.

However, when a milkmaid goes missing deep in the forest, the locals suspect a predatory bear is at large. A second girl is attacked, and the sheriff is quick to offer a reward for the bear's capture. Using early forensics and daguerreotype, Læstadius and Jussi find clues that point to a far worse killer on the loose, even as they are unaware of the evil closing in around them.

To Cook a Bear delves into the intricate dynamics of communities, exploring how they can turn inward, how superstition can escalate into violence, and how the power of language can be transformative in a richly fascinating mystery. The novel is a masterpiece of narrative, with superb suspense and a great literary experience. V.G. (Sweden) and La Vanguardia (Spain) have praised it as a masterpiece of narrative, while The Sunday Times has hailed it as the year's most memorable narrator.

This novel is not to be missed, as it offers a unique and captivating perspective on the world. It is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and literary mysteries alike.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857058966