The Last Bear by Hannah Gold is a poignant and beautifully written tale about the bond between a young girl named April and a polar bear, the last of its kind, in the Arctic. This story combines adventure, emotional depth, and an important environmental message, making it a compelling read for both children and adults. I had the pleasure of experiencing the book through Audible, and my five-year-old loved it just as much as I did. With its engaging narrative, heartfelt themes, and seamless blending of fact and fiction, The Last Bear is a book that stays with you long after you’ve finished it.

A Girl, A Bear, and the Edge of Extinction

Set on a remote Arctic island, The Last Bear follows April, a young girl spending the summer with her father, a scientist studying climate change. April is a solitary child, content with her quiet surroundings and distant relationship with her father. However, everything changes when she discovers a lone polar bear stranded on a shrinking patch of ice.

The Fragile Line Between Survival and Despair

As April forms a deep connection with the bear, she begins to understand the fragility of the natural world and the devastating effects of climate change. The bear becomes not just a companion, but a symbol of everything at risk due to human activity. As the story unfolds, April’s journey becomes one of empathy, responsibility, and courage—learning to protect something she loves even when the odds seem insurmountable.

A Seamless Blend of Fiction and Vital Facts

What truly sets The Last Bear apart is Hannah Gold’s ability to weave factual environmental information into the story without it feeling forced or overwhelming. Gold seamlessly integrates details about polar bears, their habitat, and the real-life impact of global warming, making the educational elements feel like an organic part of the narrative. This approach not only enriches the story but also provides young readers with valuable knowledge about the world around them.

A Miraculous Bond That Will Break Your Heart

At its core, The Last Bear is a story about the powerful connection between a girl and an animal. As April and Bear forge a friendship, they become mirrors for one another. April, isolated and yearning for companionship, finds in Bear a kindred spirit. Meanwhile, Bear, struggling to survive in an increasingly hostile environment, represents the vulnerability of all endangered species.

Magic Meets Tragedy: The Power of Their Connection

Gold paints their bond in a way that feels both magical and heartbreaking. Their relationship is tender yet filled with the tension of impending loss. As April learns to navigate the complex emotions tied to the Bear’s survival, she also discovers her own strength and resilience. This deep emotional connection is what makes The Last Bear such a powerful and memorable read, urging readers to reflect on their own relationships with nature and the creatures we share the planet with.

A Story That Captivates Both Child and Adult

One of the most delightful aspects of The Last Bear is how much my five-year-old loved it. The story resonated with my child on a deep level, especially Bear, whose vulnerability and strength captured their imagination. My child was captivated by the friendship between him and April, and the environmental themes sparked thoughtful conversations about protecting animals and the planet. Listening to the book on Audible made the experience even more engaging for both of us. The narrator’s expressive voice and clear enunciation kept my child’s attention, and I could see them processing the story’s themes. After finishing the book, we found ourselves discussing the bear and the need for environmental action, which is a testament to how effective the book is in conveying its message.

A Warning: The Darker Side of Survival

A slight word of warning, however, is that younger readers may find some elements distressing. The descriptions of the bear’s desperation are brutal, and April herself takes some very dangerous risks trying to keep Bear alive. The scene where they try and leave for Svalbard in a boat, alone, is especially graphic. The threat to April and Bear’s life is explored deeply, and younger children may struggle with this.

The Last Bear is a beautifully crafted, emotionally resonant story that blends adventure with an urgent environmental message. Hannah Gold’s writing is both lyrical and informative, creating a story that is accessible to young readers while remaining impactful for adults. Gold explores themes of empathy, courage, and the importance of protecting the natural world.

I believe many young readers will connect with April’s journey and the bear’s struggle for survival. Whether you experience it through Audible or in print, The Last Bear is a story that will stay with you. It reminds us all of the fragility of our planet and the creatures who call it home. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a heartfelt and thought-provoking tale that also encourages environmental stewardship.

The sequel, Finding Bear, is out now.