Allison D. (alleigh) reviewed on 8/30/2008 + 15 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 7

[i]The Clan of the Cave Bear[/i] is the first in Jean Auels [i]Earths Children[/i] series, and its an exciting way to begin. The book is a coming-of-age story for a young girl, Ayla, living during the Ice Age who is orphaned during an Earthquake. Ayla is adopted by The Clan of the Cave Bear, although she clearly is not Clan, as she looks, acts, and communicates very differently. The story is clearly a work of fantasy, as there are obvious factual inaccuracies; however, the quality of Auels writing makes it easy to become absorbed in the story and forget reality.

Aylas tale is on of moving from childhood to adulthood, Auel masterfully weaves vivid details about the setting, while keeping the reader engaged in the plot. Each character in the novel goes through his or her own individual struggle because of Aylas difference, yet because of the Auels writing style, it is easy for the reader to understand why each character is faced with difficult choices, rather than automatically siding with the main character. There is also depth to the descriptions that Auel uses, which makes it easy to understand the love between Ayla and her adopted parentsCreb and Izathe intensity of Brouds hatred toward Ayla, and the heart wrenching pain that is inflicted upon her.

Overall, the book is a fairly easy, but very captivating read.

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