"Touching Spirit Bear" is a novel by Ben Mikaelsen that tells the story of Cole Matthews, a young man who is sent to a rehabilitation program on a remote Alaskan island after committing a violent act. The program, known as Circle Justice, is based on the principles of restorative justice and involves the participation of the offender, the victim, and the community in finding a resolution to the harm caused by the offense.
As part of his rehabilitation, Cole is sent on a solo "vision quest" in the wilderness, during which he is attacked by a spirit bear. The spirit bear, or "Moody Bear" as it is called by the native Tlingit people, represents Cole's inner turmoil and the negative emotions that have driven him to violence. The bear's attack serves as a wake-up call for Cole, and he begins to confront the root causes of his anger and aggression.
One of the key themes of "Touching Spirit Bear" is the idea of forgiveness and redemption. Cole is initially resistant to the idea of apologizing for his actions and taking responsibility for the harm he has caused. However, through his interactions with the other members of the Circle Justice program and his experiences in the wilderness, he begins to understand the value of forgiveness and the importance of making amends for his mistakes.
In addition to forgiveness and redemption, the novel also touches on themes of nature and the environment. The wilderness of the Alaskan island serves as a backdrop for Cole's journey of self-discovery and healing. The natural world and its animals, such as the spirit bear and the eagles that Cole encounters on his vision quest, serve as symbols of the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of respecting and preserving the natural world.
Overall, "Touching Spirit Bear" is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the importance of respecting and protecting the natural world. It is a powerful reminder of the potential for growth and transformation, and the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and working towards healing and reconciliation.
