Within Cole Matthews lie anger, rage and hate. Cole has been
stealing and fighting for years. This time he caught Alex Driscal
in the, parking lot and smashed his head against the sidewalk. Now,
Alex may have permanent brain damage'and Cole is in the Biggest
trouble of his life.
Cole is offered Circle Justice: a system based on Native
American traditions that attempts to provide healing for the
criminal offender, the victim and the, community. With prison as
his only alternative, Cole plays along. He says he wants to repent,
but in his heart Cole blames his alcoholic mom his, abusive dad,
wimpy Alex -- everyone but himself -- for his situation.
Cole receives a one-year banishment to a remote Alaskan island.
There, he is mauled by Mysterious white bear of Native American
legend. Hideously injured, Cole waits for his death His thoughts
shift from from Anger to humility. To survive, he must stop blaming
others and take responsibility for his life. Rescuers arrive to
save Cole's but it is the attack of the Spirit Bear that may save
his soul.
Ben Mikaelsen paints a vivid picture of a juvenile offender,
examining the roots without absolving solving him of responsibility
for his actions, and questioning a society in which angry people
make victims of their peers and communities. Touching Spirit Bear
is a poignant testimonial to the power of a pain that can destroy,
or lead to healing
