For young readers captivated by the wild, this story follows a Ute boy on a challenging journey of survival, courage, and self-discovery in the San Juan Mountains.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is navigating questions of identity and purpose, or needs a model of resilience in the face of daunting challenges. "Beardance" follows Cloyd, a Ute boy, on a profound journey into the wild. He takes on the monumental task of helping two orphaned grizzly cubs survive the winter, a mission that tests his survival skills and deepens his connection to his heritage. This compelling sequel to "Bearstone" explores themes of courage, empathy, and finding one's spiritual path. It is an ideal read for nature-loving kids who appreciate a serious, thoughtful adventure story grounded in respect for the wild and Indigenous traditions.
Realistic survival situations include blizzards, risk of starvation, extreme cold, and isolation.
Sensitive Topics
The death of a significant secondary character (Walter, Cloyd's elderly guardian) is a central event. It is handled directly and with realistic grief, but the overall resolution is hopeful, focusing on Cloyd's strength and future. The death of the mother bear occurs before the book begins but is the catalyst for the plot. Cloyd's search for his cultural identity as a Ute is a primary theme, approached from a personal, spiritual perspective rather than a religious one.
Ideal Reader
A thoughtful 10 to 13-year-old who loves animal and survival stories but is ready for more emotional depth. This child is interested in nature, respects different cultures, and appreciates a quieter, more introspective protagonist who demonstrates courage through perseverance.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared for a discussion about the death of Walter, which is a sad moment in the book. It may also be helpful to provide some context about the importance of spiritual quests in some Indigenous cultures, framing Cloyd's journey not just as survival, but as a mission to find himself. The book can be read cold, but these themes are worth discussing. The parent notices their child seems to be searching for their own unique identity or passion. The child might express feeling a bit lost or disconnected and would benefit from a story about finding purpose through a difficult, self-directed challenge.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will be captivated by the survival elements: a boy living with bears and battling the wilderness. An older reader (11-13) will more fully appreciate the nuanced emotional and spiritual journey. They will understand the weight of Cloyd's grief and the significance of him forging his own identity rooted in his Ute heritage.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many survival stories that pit the protagonist against nature, this book positions the protagonist as a caretaker within it. The blend of a realistic, high-stakes survival plot with a profound, culturally-specific spiritual quest makes it unique. The focus is on empathy and responsibility towards wildlife, not conquering it.
Read plot summary
Cloyd, a Ute boy living with an elderly rancher, Walter, returns to Colorado's San Juan Mountains. He discovers two orphaned grizzly cubs whose mother was killed. Feeling a spiritual connection and a deep sense of responsibility, Cloyd undertakes a "beardance," an attempt to mimic a mother bear's actions to teach the cubs how to survive and hibernate. He faces harsh winter conditions, dwindling supplies, and his own profound loneliness. The journey is both a physical trial and a spiritual quest that solidifies his connection to his Ute heritage, especially after he learns of his mentor Walter's passing.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Cloyd feels a deep responsibility to the cubs because of his connection to the bearstone. Why do you think he felt it was his personal mission to save them? Have you ever felt that strongly about helping an animal or person?
2
The book is called "Beardance." What does Cloyd's dance for the bears represent? Is it just a practical way to teach them about denning, or does it mean something more to him and his Ute identity?
3
Walter tells Cloyd, "A man's got to be his own man." How does Cloyd's journey with the cubs help him figure out what kind of man he wants to be, separate from Walter or his Ute grandmother?
4
Cloyd faces extreme cold, hunger, and loneliness. Which challenge do you think was the hardest for him to overcome: the physical ones or the emotional ones? Why?
