"To Cook a Bear is a fantastic tale set in the far north of Sweden in 1852. It follows a runaway Sami boy and his mentor, the revivalist preacher Laestadius, as they investigate a murder in their village along with the mysteries of life"-- Provided by publisher.

Sweden, 1852. Jussi, a runaway, becomes pastor Laestadius's faithful son and disciple, and the two set out on botanical treks filled with philosophical discussions where Jussi learns all about plants and nature; and also how to read and write and about spirituality. Their quiet days are interrupted when a maid goes missing in the forest. When she is found dead, the locals suspect a predatory bear is at large. Laestadius sees traces that point to a far worse killer on the loose. After another maid is severely injured, Jussi and the pastor work to track down the murderer, unaware of the evil that is closing in on them. -- adapted from back cover