My Arctic Adventure!

Below are some pictures and videos from my research trip to Svalbard as research for Finding Bear. This is such a beautiful, untouched part of the world which teems with the most incredible wildlife.

I went in early September so it wasn’t nearly as cold as it would be for April who travels there to find Bear in the thick of winter - but it was still cold enough to wear coats, hats and gloves! Can you guess if I managed to spot a real life polar bear?

Photo Library

Longyearbyen

Longyearbyen is the capital of Svalbard and one of the most northernmost towns in all the world! It's also where April said goodbye to Bear in The Last Bear and the starting point for her latest adventure in Finding Bear.

The Polar Institute

The Polar Institute plays a role in both Bear books and here it is in real life!

Beware The Polar Bears!

On the outskirts of Longyearbyen you'll find these very unique warning signs. Outside of this zone you must be armed.

Husky Puppy Cuteness!

In Longyearbyen, I just had to say hello to some adorable husky pups! This husky company gave me lots of ideas and information to make Hedda's job feel authentic.

Glacier

I took a hybrid boat ride on the fjord (with my peanut butter on me just in case Bear appeared) and we saw this beautiful glacier.

Bear Valley

With a guide, we took a hike in Bear Valley (yes it really is called that). Can you spot the reindeer in the background?

Abandoned Mine Shaft

Svalbard used to have a number of mine shafts - of which I think only one is still operational. This is an abandoned coal mine which inspired one of the scenes in the book.

Video Gallery

Arctic Fox

On our boat tour we saw this beautiful arctic fox.

Trapper’s Cabin

On a visit to the museum in Longyearbyen, I got inspiration for the trapper’s cabins.

Reindeer!

Check out this beautiful Svalbard reindeer.

Bear Island

On the way to Svalbard we actually flew over the real life Bear Island!