Touching Spirit Bear (Spirit Bear)

After his anger erupts into violence, Cole, in order to avoid going to prison, agrees to participate in a sentencing alternative based on the Native American Circle Justice, and he is sent to a remote Alaskan Island where an encounter with a huge Spirit Bear changes his life.

Reviews

“Mikaelsen’s portrayal of this angry, manipulative, damaged teen is dead on.” — School Library Journal (starred review)"[Cole's] solitary life on the island is just the ticket for Paulsen fans, who will appreciate the survival story." — The Bulletin“Mikaelsen paints a realistic portrait of an unlikable young punk.” — Kirkus Reviews“An excellent companion to Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet and Allan Eckert’s Incident at Hawk’s Hill.” — ALA Booklist“[Cole’s story] will fascinate young and old, and have everyone waiting for the sequel.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)