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Bears of the Ice #3
The Keepers of the Keys (Bears of the Ice #3)
Perfect for fans of His Dark Materials ! Against all odds, cubs Stellan, Jytte, Third, and Froya have found the key hidden inside the legendary Den of Forever Frost. Now, they have everything they need to destroy the dangerous ice clock. Everything . . . except an army. The power-hungry Grand Patek will stop at nothing to protect the clock, the source of his authority. And so, it's up to the cubs to convince the animals of Ga'Hoole to join the fight-a journey that'll take them from the fabled owl parliament to the rugged territory of the wolves of the beyond. But the owls and the wolves have secrets of their own -- secrets that threaten to fracture the fragile alliance. Do Stellan and Jytte have what it takes to become the leaders of the resistance? Or will the bears be left on their own to battle the greatest enemy Ga'Hoole has ever known?
288 pages, Hardcover
First published May 1, 2019
28 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Lasky
266 books2,265 followersKathryn Lasky, also known as Kathryn Lasky Knight and E. L. Swann, is an award-winning American author of over one hundred books for children and adults. Best known for the Guardians of Ga’Hoole series, her work has been translated into 19 languages and includes historical fiction, fantasy, and nonfiction.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 20, 2025
I liked this book as much as the other two, but this is the last book of the series, and it had a cliffhanger. If there was going to be another book, then the ending was fine. Since there isn't going to be anymore Bears of the Ice books then the ending wasn't a good one and I didn't like that. I really like the story, just not the ending
July 10, 2020
This was easily the best book in the series so far (approaching 5 stars even) as it included a whole lot more of the familiar characters and world of Ga’Hoole. I liked the new character of Rags. I liked seeing the Great Tree and its familiar faces and the wolves of the Beyond. There were moments that truly had me worried about what was coming next, and I definitely look forward to seeing what happens when bears, owls, and wolves come together.
July 31, 2022
So, I tend to rave about the Owls series and its spinoffs, but this one book, I'm not happy with.
The story, as usual, was really good, even though some of the characters seemed inconsistent to what they were in book 1.
However, 3/4ths of the way through the book was a d-word. In a children's book. It was not necessary or called for. Especially since each of the animal species has their own versions of cuss words that are more like nonsense words than cuss words.
Will I read the next book if it ever comes out? Yes. But I'll be very careful who I recommend this particular set to...
The story, as usual, was really good, even though some of the characters seemed inconsistent to what they were in book 1.
However, 3/4ths of the way through the book was a d-word. In a children's book. It was not necessary or called for. Especially since each of the animal species has their own versions of cuss words that are more like nonsense words than cuss words.
Will I read the next book if it ever comes out? Yes. But I'll be very careful who I recommend this particular set to...
August 25, 2021
I enjoyed this journey of the bears of the ice. The cubs were great characters.
I was surprised at how big the time jump is from the last book in the Owl's of Gáhoole to the first book in this series... The owls I got to know are all old or dead...
There was a lot of little typo errors in my ebook copy. They were very annoying...
This story is unfinished... They didn't even get to the war yet.
So... will there be other books in this series later?
Or does it continue in the book series about the Wolves of the Beyond??
I guess I'll have to read those to find out..., though they appear to be prequels.
I was really looking forward to the conclusion.
If it doesn't continue in one of the other book spin-offs I'm going to be highly disappointed...
I was surprised at how big the time jump is from the last book in the Owl's of Gáhoole to the first book in this series... The owls I got to know are all old or dead...
There was a lot of little typo errors in my ebook copy. They were very annoying...
This story is unfinished... They didn't even get to the war yet.
So... will there be other books in this series later?
Or does it continue in the book series about the Wolves of the Beyond??
I guess I'll have to read those to find out..., though they appear to be prequels.
I was really looking forward to the conclusion.
If it doesn't continue in one of the other book spin-offs I'm going to be highly disappointed...
July 24, 2020
This was a pretty good book. I liked reading about all my old buddies from the "Guardians of Ga'hoole" series. Does anyone know if and when the next book will be published? You can't just keep me hanging, I really liked this book and want the series to continue.
December 15, 2021
Okay. It has been two and a half years since this book was released. When is book four coming out?
October 2, 2019
They have won the battle, but can they win the war?
Stellan, Jytte, Third, and Froya have accomplished great feats for such young bears. They have traveled far from the icy biome they were born in, and after tireless searching they have found the lush, green forests that are home to their mentor, Svern, who is also Stellan and Jytte’s father. Svern is a rebel bear who has tried, in the past, to defeat the Grand Patek, a merciless bear that uses the Ice Clock as a facade for his tyranny. The bears’ findings and contributions have weakened the Grand Patek’s power, but he is still a looming threat. With Svern’s help, the bears have taken the key of the Den of Forever Frost, a place that was rumored to have only been a myth until they found it. Now that the bears possess the key, they finally have a chance at defeating the merciless Grand Patek and his Ice Clock.
They are tasked with delivering the key to the great owls of Ga’Hoole, and convincing the owls to conquer the Grand Patek, which will not be easy. The story begins with the bears as they travel to Ga’Hoole. They are immensely relieved when the regal owls accept their proposition, for the bears believe their journey is coming to an end. However, there is much more to do, for the owls dictate that they will only join the fight on the terms that Stellan, Jytte, Third, and Froya will travel through the lands and recruit an army of animals. Although they are dismayed that the fate of all animals’ rests on their shoulders, they agree to the terms, and begin training in the Great Ga’hoole Tree. The bears spend time learning the customs of various animals, and some survival tactics for the different regions. They study the way of the owls and become quite fond of the tree and its inhabitants.
With their new-found knowledge, the bears embark on their adventure. Together they reach exotic, new locations, and quickly learn to be cautious, for every species has an intricate culture, and a strange, new way of life. From the honorable Ambala Owls, to the competitive wolf clans, each creature has traditions and customs more formal than the last. They must tread lightly, for one wrong word could cost the bears a powerful alliance, and one less alliance means the chances of overpowering the Grand Patek become slimmer. While the bears make their way through the wilderness, foes lurk in dark, ready to pounce and betray. Anyone could be a traitor, and the risk is too high to chance. The death of thousands is on the line.
Meanwhile, the Grand Patek is becoming dangerously more impatient. Everything standing in the way of his plan is a threat and shall be destroyed. The time leading to the ominous Great Melting is growing shorter, and he must make everything perfect. Even if it means starting a war...
What species will join the bears in their valiant cause, if any? Will the bears’ army be strong enough to win a war? In such a time of treachery, who are friends, and who are foes? Join the fight by reading The Keepers of the Keys, the latest addition to the fantastic Bears of the Ice series.
The Keepers of the Keys is a unique and different type of book compared to its predecessors but fits well into the series. It is fast paced, and the ending of the book preceding it flows nicely into the beginning of this book. This novel introduces multiple subplots that are beautifully woven together, creating a detailed web of storylines. Many characters from previous books are reintroduced in this one. For those who have read the previous novels, older characters crossing paths with newer ones is quite a delight. Some characters are reunited, and have memorable, heartwarming scenes upon meeting.
The Keepers of the Keys is by far the most diverse book in the Bears of the Ice series. It fully showcases each species, their culture, their customs, and their region. It also exhibits how various animals respond to the bears’ proposition, and how their reply reflects the species’ traditions and heritage. While this is the most culturally diverse book of the series, it also arguably provides the most beautiful imagery. The different environments that take place in the story are unique and extremely detailed, from the rigid, mountainous areas of the wolves, to the ancient forests of the owls, to the snowy lands of the bears. The wide range of climates displays how large and complex the world in the Bears of the Ice series is.
Reading this book was an enjoyable experience and was quite easy. Ages eight and up should have no problem with understanding this book and will have a wonderful time reading. The Bears of Ice series has been lovely to read, and this book was no exception. I give it five stars.
Reviewed by Tessa H., Age 13, Oklahoma Central Mensa
Stellan, Jytte, Third, and Froya have accomplished great feats for such young bears. They have traveled far from the icy biome they were born in, and after tireless searching they have found the lush, green forests that are home to their mentor, Svern, who is also Stellan and Jytte’s father. Svern is a rebel bear who has tried, in the past, to defeat the Grand Patek, a merciless bear that uses the Ice Clock as a facade for his tyranny. The bears’ findings and contributions have weakened the Grand Patek’s power, but he is still a looming threat. With Svern’s help, the bears have taken the key of the Den of Forever Frost, a place that was rumored to have only been a myth until they found it. Now that the bears possess the key, they finally have a chance at defeating the merciless Grand Patek and his Ice Clock.
They are tasked with delivering the key to the great owls of Ga’Hoole, and convincing the owls to conquer the Grand Patek, which will not be easy. The story begins with the bears as they travel to Ga’Hoole. They are immensely relieved when the regal owls accept their proposition, for the bears believe their journey is coming to an end. However, there is much more to do, for the owls dictate that they will only join the fight on the terms that Stellan, Jytte, Third, and Froya will travel through the lands and recruit an army of animals. Although they are dismayed that the fate of all animals’ rests on their shoulders, they agree to the terms, and begin training in the Great Ga’hoole Tree. The bears spend time learning the customs of various animals, and some survival tactics for the different regions. They study the way of the owls and become quite fond of the tree and its inhabitants.
With their new-found knowledge, the bears embark on their adventure. Together they reach exotic, new locations, and quickly learn to be cautious, for every species has an intricate culture, and a strange, new way of life. From the honorable Ambala Owls, to the competitive wolf clans, each creature has traditions and customs more formal than the last. They must tread lightly, for one wrong word could cost the bears a powerful alliance, and one less alliance means the chances of overpowering the Grand Patek become slimmer. While the bears make their way through the wilderness, foes lurk in dark, ready to pounce and betray. Anyone could be a traitor, and the risk is too high to chance. The death of thousands is on the line.
Meanwhile, the Grand Patek is becoming dangerously more impatient. Everything standing in the way of his plan is a threat and shall be destroyed. The time leading to the ominous Great Melting is growing shorter, and he must make everything perfect. Even if it means starting a war...
What species will join the bears in their valiant cause, if any? Will the bears’ army be strong enough to win a war? In such a time of treachery, who are friends, and who are foes? Join the fight by reading The Keepers of the Keys, the latest addition to the fantastic Bears of the Ice series.
The Keepers of the Keys is a unique and different type of book compared to its predecessors but fits well into the series. It is fast paced, and the ending of the book preceding it flows nicely into the beginning of this book. This novel introduces multiple subplots that are beautifully woven together, creating a detailed web of storylines. Many characters from previous books are reintroduced in this one. For those who have read the previous novels, older characters crossing paths with newer ones is quite a delight. Some characters are reunited, and have memorable, heartwarming scenes upon meeting.
The Keepers of the Keys is by far the most diverse book in the Bears of the Ice series. It fully showcases each species, their culture, their customs, and their region. It also exhibits how various animals respond to the bears’ proposition, and how their reply reflects the species’ traditions and heritage. While this is the most culturally diverse book of the series, it also arguably provides the most beautiful imagery. The different environments that take place in the story are unique and extremely detailed, from the rigid, mountainous areas of the wolves, to the ancient forests of the owls, to the snowy lands of the bears. The wide range of climates displays how large and complex the world in the Bears of the Ice series is.
Reading this book was an enjoyable experience and was quite easy. Ages eight and up should have no problem with understanding this book and will have a wonderful time reading. The Bears of Ice series has been lovely to read, and this book was no exception. I give it five stars.
Reviewed by Tessa H., Age 13, Oklahoma Central Mensa
July 17, 2019
My name is Froya, and I'm so thankful to have found Stellan, Jytte, and my brother Third. I never felt like part of a family until I met these polar bears, and I can't believe Third has forgiven me for my cruelty. We're determined to stop the Grand Patek and his followers. Their worship of The Clock is costing the lives of young cubs, and the violence has started to spread. We went to request help from the owls of Ga'Hoole, and they agreed, with a couple of conditions. We must venture across the dangerous lands and seek alliances with the diverse range of animals. Why would any leaders listen to the words of four young cubs, especially the mysterious, fearsome wolves of the Beyond? The quest seems impossible, but allowing innocent bears to die is not an option.
I was hoping this book would conclude the series, but no luck. It's been interesting and entertaining, but it's run its course with me. I liked how the first book was mostly "realistic", but the series has slowly diverged from that as the cubs meet other creatures. It's still a source of learning about the wildlife and nature. The cubs learn to use the sun and stars to navigate the lands, and they discover information about owls and wolves that will be useful. Third and Froya became companions along the way, and it's nice to see the author allowing them to make important contributions along the way. Third is able to see the future in his dreams, and he's provided sound advice to Stellan and Jytte. Froya memorizes the stars and helps with navigation. The team is joined by a tiny owlet named Rags, who didn't know how to fly, and even she performs critical deeds. The Grand Patek is the primary antagonist, but the author adds some other complications to the conflict. Secret motivations and alliances arise that will impede the bears' efforts. Overall, I'm enjoying the series and will probably end up reading the fourth book, when it's published.
I was hoping this book would conclude the series, but no luck. It's been interesting and entertaining, but it's run its course with me. I liked how the first book was mostly "realistic", but the series has slowly diverged from that as the cubs meet other creatures. It's still a source of learning about the wildlife and nature. The cubs learn to use the sun and stars to navigate the lands, and they discover information about owls and wolves that will be useful. Third and Froya became companions along the way, and it's nice to see the author allowing them to make important contributions along the way. Third is able to see the future in his dreams, and he's provided sound advice to Stellan and Jytte. Froya memorizes the stars and helps with navigation. The team is joined by a tiny owlet named Rags, who didn't know how to fly, and even she performs critical deeds. The Grand Patek is the primary antagonist, but the author adds some other complications to the conflict. Secret motivations and alliances arise that will impede the bears' efforts. Overall, I'm enjoying the series and will probably end up reading the fourth book, when it's published.
September 27, 2024
This book made me sad, angry and disappointed. Cubs are reunited with their mother - but this book has a lot of build up only for it to not lead anywhere. Their father and the leader of the owls are kidnapped and we don't know what happens to them by the end of the book, the cubs are tasked with visiting all the owls, wolves and other animals so they can make an army and fight the evil bears and destroy the clock - but then, they go to one owl group and two wolf packs and the book just ends abruptly on a cliff hanger. I loved seeing the wolves again but ... they meet a wolf that is nice to them, she is then assasinated and they mourn her and are so sad they can barely go on - they barely knew her and she would've worked so much better and her death would have been so much more impactful if we met her before. A pretty disappointing book especially considering the ending. Not sure why she chose to end the series like this knowing that she won't revisit it and write another book.
June 7, 2023
Great for kids.
There are a lot of typos in thus series, and although a little annoying to an adult, I can see the benefit of kids seeing these and correcting them. Interesting stories and holds attention.
There are a lot of typos in thus series, and although a little annoying to an adult, I can see the benefit of kids seeing these and correcting them. Interesting stories and holds attention.
June 12, 2024
This was an incredible book. I loved the owl's characters, and the wolves, as I just read wolves of the beyond. This was a book i would recommend for anyone who enjoyed the other books I have reviewed.
May 29, 2025
At the end of this 3rd book mum and her cubs are reunited, which is what started these cubs out on their own to begin with. But the book ends while on the cusp of war. So the possibilities are endless with maybe a book #4? Only time will tell.
February 9, 2022
I LOVED this book. But ***SPOILER*** it is heart wrenching.
May 26, 2025
Outstanding writing! Emotion truly comes thru!
June 11, 2025
What a conclusion! I have really liked this series and really enjoyed getting into it.
I like and dislike all the same things as the other two. Nothing really changed throughout the series. I would guess she wrote all three in one sitting with how little differences there are.
This complaint is a little tricky to write with no spoilers, but I'll do my best. I do think it's silly that a fox killed a bear. No way they would be capable of biting a polar bear's throat and killing them at all, let alone instantly. Having a bear do it would have made a lot more sense. A fox's mouth could barely grab fur.
I like how she connects the different events. Some things seem random or out of place, but then it all makes sense later and you're like, "OOOOOHHHHHH!"
The use of the d-word made me quite unhappy. This does not belong in a children's book. Also, they have their own set of curse words so I don't even know why she picked this to go in here. It was just this one instance that one time so maybe it was a mistake that she meant to go back and fix? I don't know, but it shouldn't be here.
I find it a little confusing as to why they are so upset over wolf they knew for like 5 minutes. Sure, she was nice to them, but having several pages of despair didn't make sense.
I liked the plot twists. Pretty easy to figure out, but I think in practice they were done pretty well.
I very much enjoyed the character development and story progression.
This book ends on a cliffhanger. I don't know if it picks back up in the rest of the Guardians of Ga'Hoole as I have not read all 16, but there's definitely missing pieces here. I hope it's just not left forever unanswered!
I like and dislike all the same things as the other two. Nothing really changed throughout the series. I would guess she wrote all three in one sitting with how little differences there are.
This complaint is a little tricky to write with no spoilers, but I'll do my best. I do think it's silly that a fox killed a bear. No way they would be capable of biting a polar bear's throat and killing them at all, let alone instantly. Having a bear do it would have made a lot more sense. A fox's mouth could barely grab fur.
I like how she connects the different events. Some things seem random or out of place, but then it all makes sense later and you're like, "OOOOOHHHHHH!"
The use of the d-word made me quite unhappy. This does not belong in a children's book. Also, they have their own set of curse words so I don't even know why she picked this to go in here. It was just this one instance that one time so maybe it was a mistake that she meant to go back and fix? I don't know, but it shouldn't be here.
I find it a little confusing as to why they are so upset over wolf they knew for like 5 minutes. Sure, she was nice to them, but having several pages of despair didn't make sense.
I liked the plot twists. Pretty easy to figure out, but I think in practice they were done pretty well.
I very much enjoyed the character development and story progression.
This book ends on a cliffhanger. I don't know if it picks back up in the rest of the Guardians of Ga'Hoole as I have not read all 16, but there's definitely missing pieces here. I hope it's just not left forever unanswered!
March 3, 2020
4.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews