The Girl who Speaks Bear

I don't normally go for these almost fantasy style books, but I loved it. Some really heart warming and useful life lessons for the children, whilst being an exciting adventure. I couldn't wait to pick it up again each evening.

HelenMelon2

This story is about Yanka, a girl found in a bear cave, who wonders where she has come from, and who are her family. The story details her search for answers, and her adventures along the way. A lovely tale, filled with interesting characters she meets during her journey. A heartwarming story.

ametcalfe

A fascinating book, about stories which sound unbelievable, but in fact are pieces of a jigsaw puzzle which all fits together perfectly at the end. It also has a message about how we should care and respect each other.

Mandy Raine

I really enjoyed this book with its link to ancient fairy tales. The house with chicken legs is a character in itself. Yanka's journey is a as much about understanding herself and being comfortable in her own skin, as it is an adventure in the snow forest.

motherease

A magical tale. Loved how it used story telling to reveal Yanka's past and moved the story forward. Liked the message of team work and the value of friendship/family, however your family is made up.

Kezchar

A great mix of mythical, magical and imaginative stories embedded into Yanka's journey of self discovery. Yanka is trying to find out who she is, battling between the magic of the forest and the human world. I really liked how it felt we were part of Yanka's adventure and how the author uses the Chapters to share "Once upon a time..." mini stories which tie together beautifully.

MissMarshallKMS

I loved this book! It took me on an exciting journey through places that were familiar but I have never been to them. The description and pace of the story made me want to just keep reading. I highly recommend this book.

Jo-Ann G

I thought this was a lovely story. It explored friendship, sadness, identity and so much more. Yanka is a wonderful female protagonist.

daisyhogarth

A compelling adventure begins from the first page as Yanka sets out on a journey to discover her past and find out who she really is.

[email protected]

Oh, what a lovely book! ❤ Yanka is a young girl who feels she doesn't quite 'fit in' with her village friends. She was abandoned as a baby, and doesn't know her own story, but has always been drawn to the forest. This book follows Yanka in an adventure to find who she is and where she truly belongs. It's just a wonderful wee tale! One of my favourite things about the book was the stories within the story. I loved these fairytales and how they gave Yanka insight into her past! The characters were wonderful too 🥰 A heartwarming book which I would recommend to young adults and adults alike!

Mrs 😊wens

I enjoyed the story because there's more to it than the simple, yet imaginative, unfolding of the events. The different layers of meaning and intersecting settings is done skillfully using folk stories from the past.

FlaviaP.

Wow! I loved this book. The setting descriptions and magic within the story line made it thoroughly enjoyable.

MrsMcMurdo

If I could give 10 stars I would! This was just such a magical read and I know many of my students are going to absolutely adore this book and fall in love with Yanka who is a strong female protagonist. Yanka teaches us the importance of acceptance and searching for our inner self. Sophie writes beautifully and intwines stories so seamlessly that I could not put this down!

Ms. G

Magical. I loved how the forest folk tales were woven through the story and the beauty of the forest descriptions. The story is exciting and the themes of family and working together are touching and uplifting. Also, the best description of a fight with a dragon - absolutely awesome. I know my Year 5 class will be mesmerized! Favourite character: Mousetrap - because of the humour he brings in moments of tension and his loyalty.

SarJane

This is a lovely story about a young girl called Yanka and her adventure in finding out about family, friendships and herself.

jedghill

From the author of the very popular House With The Chicken Legs, another fantastically well written story which takes a traditional tale from folklore and imagines the life of the key character in a way that is completely relatable for a modern child. Yanka lives happily in a village at the edge of the forest with Mamotcka but always wonders about her past and why she doesn't quite fit in. Gradually this is revealed to her by a series of folk tales which skilfully combine with the main narrative. It's a great adventure/quest, beautiful friendships between humans & animals, and themes of growing up, friendship & family. Perfect for confident readers from Y4 right on up. The type of top quality writing that you'd want in every book corner & library.

mrshdalereads

I would 100% recommend this book. It is a great fantasy story and I could not put it down. I love how it subtly links to Sophie Anderson’s other books, The House with Chicken Legs and The Castle of Tangled Magic.

hannahlock

A wonderful read. I thoroughly enjoyed becoming immersed in a world inspired by Russian folklore and traditional tales - one I am not previously familiar with. The story of belonging and learning more about one's self and how you fit into the world no matter who you are resonates beautifully with the reader.

philc1987

I loved this story, even more so as I didn't really think it would be my thing. The "folktales" were skilfully woven into the development of the book revealing layers to the characters and the story in a very clever and enjoyable way. I loved exploring the theme of belonging and identity and not having to be one thing or the other with the characters as the story unfolded. Brilliantly told.

Kellee Quick

I really enjoyed The House with Chicken Legs so was looking forward to reading this and it didn't disappoint. The book is beautifully written with wonderful description throughout and a lovely link to folk tales. I felt like I was with the main character Yanka on her quest to find out about her past and where she came from. I would definitely recommend to anybody who likes adventure.

kenchski