Review: Hibbs, bear with not clue
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 12, 2011
In his debut YA fantasy, Roland uses a number of mystical beings, both Native American and Celtic, and gives them lives and personalities that, while within the boundaries of the original concepts, are unique to the world of Eire where the young bear Hibbs has been banished for the thoughtless deed of saving a life. Or two.An unlikely trio is our hero and his side kicks. Hibbs, a curious bear that the Great Mystery usurped to balances the battle between Question and Answer, always a moment's breath away from being killed if he does not correctly learn the lessons taught by his GrandMother Estanatlehi. Surt, The Father of All Flame, and Little Brother, The First Hawk, are his constant companions in the endless cabin, and have lessons of sharing and critical thinking to learn themselves.Every creature Hibbs encounters has a richly detailed history and place within legends and mythology, and within his quest to rescue the grievously wounded Sidhe, Leandra, who is also on a quest to rescue her love - a human man of the Race of White - from exile. Together, the three companions must defeat a vast army of enemies placed in their path, using the strength of Hibbs' Orenda, and the clever witticisms that are more poignant and deadly than the powerful weapons that are gifted to the travelers. The narrator uses evocative prose and subtle humor to build tension, and engage the readers sense of sorrow, loss and compassion.This novel will appeal to young and adult readers interested in exploring the realms of philosophy, religion, and mythology. The story is told in the teaching style of oral tales, and while some of the names and terms are difficult to pronounce, the concepts are clearly developed. The beings and places are so well integrated and described, there is no distinction between the popular portrayals in literature and art, or the unique creations from the mind of author Roland Yoemans.Fair warning; read THE BEAR WITH TWO SHADOWS with a box of tissue, and your favorite teddy bear to snuggle up to.