East
89. Edith Pattou, East
Rose has never liked her first name, Ebba, which symbolizes her identity as an east-born child. East-born children are traditionally placid and domestic, but Rose has always had a desire for travel and adventure. Little does she know that she is actually a north-born child, destined to wander and be restless; her superstitious mother simply calls her east-born in order to protect her. As Rose grows up, her family falls on hard times, but just when they are about to lose their home, they are visited by an enchanted white bear. The bear says that he will ensure health and prosperity for Rose’s family if Rose will agree to go away with him. Though her distraught family objects, Rose accepts the bear’s offer and is soon swept away on an adventure beyond anything she could have imagined.
This re-telling of “East of the Sun and West of the Moon” stays fairly close to the original tale, but it still manages to be a compelling read. The story is told in short chapters, each narrated by a different character, including Rose, her father, her favorite brother Neddy, the white bear, and the evil Troll Queen herself. I thought I would be bothered by the constantly switching points of view, but it actually works very well. I was a little surprised that the Troll Queen gets a chance to narrate, because to me it made her a more sympathetic character. In the end, she does appear to deserve her fate, but I couldn’t help pitying her at some points. I loved the gradual buildup of the relationship between Rose and the white bear (who is, of course, really a man under a spell), and I loved Rose as a character in general. Her self-sacrifice and determination make her a very strong heroine. I would definitely recommend this book, which is suitable for children but enjoyable for adults as well.