Bear Boy: The True Story of a Boy, Two Bears, and the Fight to Be Free

by Justin Barker, Jane Goodall (Foreword)

Bear Boy is a true-life coming-of-age story of two bears who inspire one boy to stand up for animals, question authority and discover the power of activism.

Justin is a typical teenager, dodging school bullies and waging an endless war with his parents. But when he discovers Ursula and Brutus-two sibling black bears being kept in horrific conditions at a nearby zoo-his life begins to change. He finds a cause that ignites his passion and an animal sanctuary willing to take the bears. But there's a catch: he'll have to cover the quarter-million-dollar cost.

Undaunted, Justin takes his seemingly insurmountable quest to an international audience, gaining media attention and support from celebrities. With television cameras rolling, Justin fights to free the bears, and it turns out himself.

Justin Barker's surprising and moving YA memoir offers the optimism of the 1990s while exploring timely issues of activism, animal rights, and LGBTQ identity with tenderness, unblinking honesty, and heart.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, LGBT, Childrens

240 pages, Paperback

First published June 22, 2021

About the author

Justin Barker wants you to stand up for yourself and your fellow earthlings. He loves the Spice Girls and he thinks zoos are the worst. He is a San Francisco-based TV producer, writer, and activist. Justin and his wife, Bridget, are parents to Noah and their rescued pup, Beatrice, and are queer AF. They believe #LoveisLove, #BlackLivesMatter, and thirst for a more just and equitable world.

Reviews

[Trisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

An inspiring account of how a thirteen-year-old kid rescued two bears from his local zoo where they were living in unbearable conditions and his own internal quest of coming out and discovering himself in the process.

I was hooked on this memoir from the moment I picked it up. The writing is simple yet engaging. Barker writes from his heart and doesn't shy away from revealing the darker side of his teenage life - the bullying, his teenage angst, therapy sessions and the struggle he went through to understand his sexuality and come out. But my favourite parts were the sections where he passionately advocated for animal rights and their welfare.

Being a vegetarian and an animal lover, I was able to comprehend the feelings the writer went through as a kid. I have always been troubled with the question 'how can you eat something that you love' and even though my animal-loving, yet non-vegetarian husband comes up with a variety of scientifically backed answers, I've never been quite satisfied. However, don't worry, this book would not make you switch to vegetarianism, or maybe yes, it might, but it would also let vegetarians make their peace with everyone else's food choices.

I'd especially recommend this to teenagers who need to know that they can achieve anything that they set their eyes upon as long as they are determined.

3.5/5🌟.
TW: Bullying, Animal abuse and Anger issues.

[Athena of Velaris · Rating 3 out of 5]

An arc was provided by the publisher via TeenInk in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

Get ready animal activists! Bear Boy by Justin Barker will dig its claws into your heart! In this autobiographical narrative nonfiction book about activism and growing up, the fight for the protection of two bears is documented. The story begins after Justin, an outcast who has never quite found his purpose, discovers activism and fights for improved living conditions for two mistreated animals in a local zoo. His trials and tribulations take place during his middle and high school years, making this novel a tale of growing up as well.

First, the good. Though technically nonfiction, Bear Boy was easy to read with a style that made the pages fly by. The dialogue was fun without feeling robotic, and the minimal descriptions aided the light feel of the story. The main character and narrator of the story had some decent character growth, and the last ten pages or so of the book were great.

I appreciated the complex family dynamic this book explored, and that the narrator’s perception of his parents changed as he got older. It was refreshing to see a character realize that the adults in his life were human too, and to watch as his parents slowly began to believe in the mission of activism.

Bear Boy also inspires readers to get out and make changes within their local community. It discussed lobbying and peaceful protesting, as well as getting the media involved to put pressure on local organizations. This book was a true proponent for grassroots activism, showing the reader the impacts it can have on a community and for the greater good.

Now for the not so great: there wasn’t a lot of real conflict. Though the story takes place over a large spanse of time, the only thing that tied the story together was an end goal. There weren’t any real stakes, nor were there actual consequences when things went wrong. I understand that this is technically nonfiction, but the narrative portion of the genre usually allows for a little more conflict and action.

In addition, Bear Boy is geared toward a middle-grade audience, which is something worth noting before picking it up. It can be enjoyed by readers of all ages, but the style is distinctly middle-grade. The language isn’t overly complicated, the characters don’t deal with very dark things, and the story as a whole is easy to comprehend.

The negatives out of the way, Bear Boy by Justin Barker was uplifting and inspiring, even if the plot was not always engaging. This book is especially for teenagers aspiring to join the animal right’s movement, or any firm believer in activism.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I usually don't pick up non-fiction. But the premise for this was far too intriguing to not read it. This story tells the tale of a young boy that learns about advocating for the thing he cares for: animal rights. I genuinely admire Barker for all he accomplished and it's his determination. This was an extremely charming and fun read that demonstrates the importance of speaking out for things you care for. Sweet and quick, this is a story for all animal lovers.

Thank you, NetGalley, Brutus & Ursula, and Justin Barker for the arc!

[Psychonaut · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full disclosure- I know Justin personally. And I had heard this story before, many years ago. Our mutual friend would say "tell the Bear Boy story!" and Justin would tell the 5 minute, extremely humble, version of the story. So I THOUGHT I knew this story. But boy, was I wrong! I had NO IDEA all that went into this, and I am extremely blown away and impressed. The sheer resourcefulness of this kid is unbelievable. I love animals, but it would never have occurred to me to do the things he did, especially when life was still mostly analog. I read this book in a day because I couldn't put it down, even though I knew the outcome, or at least I thought I did. If Justin ever decides to run for president, he has my vote. Seriously.

[Mairead · Rating 4 out of 5]

“What is important to you?
Who will you stand up for?
How will you make the world a better place?”

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for giving me an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

———

Synopsis:

‘Bear Boy’ is a YA memoir and coming-of-age story with a twist. It follows Justin as he navigates teenage life, a rocky relationship with his parents and his sexuality. However, his life begins to change when he discovers that animals, in particular Ursula and Brutus, sibling black bears from a nearby zoo, are being kept in horrific conditions. As he fights to free the bears and to improve conditions for animals in zoos, Justin discovers a passion for activism and quickly learns that no one is too small to make a difference.

Review:

Anyone who knows me will know that I love books about animals, and so I was very excited when Netgalley offerred me an eARC of ‘Bear Boy’. However, this book was so much more than a simple coming-of-age story with bears. It was an incredible inspiring and moving story about a lonely teenager whose passion for animal activism is fuelled by the devastating living conditions of two bears.

Its simplistic yet captivating style captured my attention from the very beginning, and I found myself finishing the book in only a few hours. Barker’s raw and honest descriptions of the animal’s conditions as well as his determination provoked empathy and encouraged me to find ways in which I could take action. You come away feeling that no one is too small to make a difference and that one can achieve anything they set their mind on.

This is a story of hope and humanity that covered many themes which I feel audiences, especially younger audiences, will relate to. Although a challenging read at times, this book was also heartfelt and hopeful and I encourage everyone to give it a read.

[james ☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

EDIT: this book is out today! go show it some love!

3.5 ⭐

thank you to netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review. also, star rating people's life experiences is weird, so my rating is based purely on the objective qualities of this book.

this story was so special, and it's one that is bound to inspire, educate, and empower those who read it. from the very beginning, we have a strong sense of who justin is, and what his values are - but we also see his learning process, and his explorations. my biggest critique is that i think it could have been a little more focused. there were times where i found myself wondering "is this really necessary?" and it ultimately dimmed the shine of the sections that did heavily focus on the bear storyline. also, aside from some strong language, this book really could be sold to middle grade readers, who i feel would be the best audience for the message.

"they have done nothing wrong, but they've been sentenced to a life in this prison."

i loved seeing justin's determination, and was especially drawn to his thought process behind putting so much work into his activism. he was constantly weighing the consequences, and choosing the animals because of the morals he had carefully considered. it made his actions feel real and clever. and though the mistreatment the animals was hard to read at times, i'm so glad this book exists, and i believe it will do for readers what that pink book in a used bookstore did for justin.

[Colin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Justin is an impassioned 13 year old with a bold mission - to improve the quality of care given to animals at his local zoo. The value proposition explored in this book is in encouraging the reader that they can do big things, at which I think it succeeds, but only if the reader continues through the first half of the book.

It took a while to find clarity on what beyond “boy saves bears” the impetus of the story would be. Not much time is devoted to anthropomorphism or the spark behind the revelation, so it seemed as though the primary prerogative was “I love animals.”

The story comes alive when the author is entirely removed from his known world and thrust into a new one. His demeanor, reflections, and yes, tone, are enhanced through the end of the book and carry it to the end.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I read this story with YA in mind. I hope those who read it find that it feeds their inspiration to do big things.

[Jenni · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book includes a beautiful foreword from Jane Goodall, best known for her research of wild chimpanzees. In the beginning, the author, Justin, is an awkward middle schooler who is the perfect target for bullies: the kid who cried on the school field trip to the zoo, who has no friends, and doesn't know any popular music. Justin is sheltered. I thought he was kidding when he said that he was shocked to find out that his favorite meal, turkey and mashed potatoes, was made from an animal. He screams at his father about this, but really, at 13 years old, wouldn't he know this already? Still, at 13, Justin changes to a vegetarian diet and decides to fight for animal rights. He learns of two bears who are held in captivity near his home and sets out on a mission to have them moved to a better facility. This book definitey shows how one person can make a difference.

[Holly Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an interesting read, I can't believe what an interesting life Justin Barker has had. Following him as a teen (mostly) we learn where he got his love of animals and how that impacted his life and the decisions he made, it also follows his period of time questioning his sexuality and learning how to fit in and make friends. I thought this was a really sweet memoir and loved how it tied in really key topics you want young people to be reading about into a story they could really get behind about saving the two bears. I was gripped and really loved seeing his determination and loyalty to the animal kingdom. I really hope more young people get their hands on this and read it.
I wish I had more to say on it to express how lovely it was but honestly, all I can say is read it and find out for yourself.
4 out of 5 stars.

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC provided by both NetGalley and The Publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Okay wow.
I was expecting to like this book but I was not expecting to enjoy it the way I did. I read it all in one sitting, and loved it.
Barker's story was really interesting, with lots to learn about animal care and other activism. I particularly loved the discussion of children & young people's ability to make a change, with the author emphasising not only his actions, but also what he learned about defying expectations in order to encourage the younger generations.
It was a good, easy read, and one I'd recommend to everyone.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this inspiring true story about a young boy who finds meaning and inspiration in animal activism and ends up making a huge impact on two bears and people all over the world. This is a well written book that you will be able to read quickly - it's hard to put down. I found myself rooting for all of the characters, wanting to learn more about them, and wondering where they all are now. I'm so glad this is a YA book and I hope it inspires many young people to find their passion and make a difference in the world. Just as enjoyable for adults as it will be for kids to read.

[thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t expecting to love this book as much as I did, so much so I devoured it in one sitting. I thought this was a great book to encourage activism, whilst learning about animals it was great in encouraging young people to stand up ,speak up and try to make a difference, that some things are worth fighting for. Absolutely fantastic

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

[Tasmin Bradshaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book.

It's a topic I'm passionate about myself. It's such a beautiful story about someone (Justin in this case) fighting for animals rights. Not everything in life is sunshine's and lollipops. I'm so glad this has been written. It will open so many more eyes to the world around us. And the importance of standing up for what you believe in. And standing up for the voiceless.

A book like this is needed and a must read. I'm so glad it's YA too.

Thank you Netgalley for letting me get my hands on this book.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun read - you get attached to the characters and leave wanting to protect animals and help save the world.

Definitely going in for a reread soon!

[EL · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t tend to review autobiographical stories as I think it’s kind of rude to give your opinion on someone else’s life but I’m making an exception for this book because I want everyone to read it.

I knew I was going to enjoy this as the subject is close to my heart, and I finished it in one sitting.

Justin Barker spent his teenage years campaigning against animals in captivity. This is his insanely inspiring story. People say kids can’t make a difference and this just goes to show, with some determination and persistence, anything is possible. I’m going to be buying a copy of this to give to my niece when she can read (she’s only 4 so a bit too young right now) but I’d recommend this for anyone who’s in need of some inspiration.

Edit: I forgot to add this in the publishers notes = my copy was on my Kindle so it may be different in the hard copy, but I'd love to have seen some photos or newspaper cuttings of related articles!

Thank you to Netgalley and Brutus & Ursula for the advance review copy.

[Justin Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Authors probably shouldn't review their own books, but I'll just say after 10 years of writing Bear Boy and after hundreds of drafts --- This book comes straight from my heart and I am proud of it. I hope it inspires people to take action & to stand up for themselves, animals and their fellow humans.

[Ky James · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 This is a book that will encourage young people to follow their dreams, to work hard to achieve a goal no matter how often they are told it is impossible. - Jane Goodall

Justin’s autobiographical tale of carving out his place in this world through animal activism, adventure, and the persistence to see through is convictions is truly heartwarming.

The story managed to make me truly care for the animals involved, and equally for the many humans involved as helpers, mentors, and friends in Justin’s life.

I was really confused. No one ever told me that the food we ate - meatballs, chicken salads, pork chops, ribs, hamburgers, baloney - didn’t just come from the grocery store.

This book also gently introduces the concept that so many young people - and honestly even some older - do not make the connection between what they eat and where it comes from. There seems to be a disconnect between meat products and the living breathing animals that they are harvested from. It was great to see the jarring moment of realisation in Justin described early in this story.

In that moment, I saw her differently, too. I realized she was doing her job - helping me understand the world, empowering me to ask for the things I needed, and encouraging me to stand up for the things I felt passionate about.

Justin’s rocky relationship with his parents, particularly his mother, is a large part of the story, and it’s really lovely to get a few tender moments between them in the second half of the story. Justin spends so much time caring and fighting for animals and developing his compassion for them, all while seemingly showing very little for his parents, that it’s really meaningful to get the family growth moments along the way as well. They added a lot to the story for me.

[The bears] were an important reminder that all animals, like all humans, deserve kindness and to be free. / [They] represented why i started my work in the first place: to give animals a voice, to help them to be seen, to allow their pain to be ours, and to make us pause if only for a moment, to mourn their passing.

The above quote succinctly sums up the heart of this story, and it is a message so very worth sharing with students young and old. It was special to share the adventure with Justin and the story unfolded, and to watch him develop from a lost and hurting young boy, into a passionate, caring, and incredibly driven and successful young man. There is a beautiful theme of belonging humming all the way throughout this novel, and its value is just so high for young readers.

Finally, I loved in the final few pages learning about how Jane Goodall writes to nearly 500 young people each year, staying in touch, encouraging them, and doing what she can to further their cause, and hers, to spread goodwill for animals. I knew she was incredible, but boy does this make me love her even more!

* I received this ARC from Netgalley and Brutus & Ursula LLC in exchange for an honest review.

[ᛚᚨᚱᚲᚨ × ᚠᛖᚾᚱᛁᚱ (Semi hiatus) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was about justice, standing up for the voiceless, and helping people see that animals were more than food or entertainment. They had their own unique lives and deserved the same decency and respect that we all yearn for.

Justin Barker had an amazing resilience and sense of what is really important from such a young age, I can't do anything if not envy the early wisdom of this former kid.
I've been vegan for almost 8 years, after being vegetarian for 4. You can see how this book was calling me, and it pushed me to become an activist for animal rights after wasting one year thinking about it. I regret not doing this sooner.
Justin was not only the kid I wish I was, but also what I hope the future generations will be: caring, smart, compassionate, full of hope and dreams for a better world, and an incredible amount of willingness to go to any length to see the change, the justice, this world deserves.
I could go on praising this book and author for pages, but a long review would take away the actual pleasure of discovering this little hero and his incredible achievement, and I'm pretty sure you'd be mad at me for keeping you from putting your hands on a copy sooner. What I can still say is that I will recommend it to anyone who'd listen, already aware of this important topic or not. This little treasure gave me chills, watery eyes, a wild fire burning in my chest. I can say without any doubt that this book made it to the short list of my all time favourites, the books that have meant more to me, and that I will go back whenever I need to be pumped up when I feel down, or when I need to feel understood, or simply to remind myself of the incredible things anyone can do, for a better world.
This book was more than a simply memoir to me, it's a reminder and a light in the dark, it's hope condensed in ink.

What is important to you? Who will you stand up for? How will you make the world a better place?

Rating: ★★★★★


***Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***

[Britt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Brutus & Ursula, LLC for an eARC of this book. The following review is my honest reflection on the text provided.

Justin Barker is an engaging storyteller, and I think a lot of people would find Bear Boy: The True Story of a Boy, Two Bears, and the Fight to Be Free empowering. A touching story of feeling misunderstood, finding yourself, and standing up for others; Barker is self-aware and open about his teenage years in a way that would allow many to relate.

As heartwarming as Barker's story is, the details of animal abuse and neglect he witnesses are horrific. It's incredible how much Barker was able to get done from an incredibly young age by being persistent and unwavering in his beliefs, and it's a powerful lesson on fighting for what's right.

For autobiographical narrative non-fiction, this was an effortless read. The writing isn't elevated, but it's very emotionally driven. I think this book would be a great fit for a teenager or pre-teen on the path to finding their voice and their place in the world.

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[Julia · Rating 3 out of 5]

** thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an early copy in exchange for my honest review **

This is a nonfiction book, a memoir, of Justin Barker’s teenage years. It’s about activism, fighting with your parents, feeling misunderstood and figuring out your identity.

When I picked up this book I was convinced that this was a book of fiction, that was mostly inspired by a true story. I don’t know how I missed that it, in fact, was nonfiction. So when I began reading this book I felt disappointed, and I thought about not reading the book at all. Most often, nonfiction books put me in a reading slump. But this book didn’t. And I am so happy I gave it a chance anyway.

This “story” is told by Justin Barker (author), from a present day view, about his teenage years during the 90s. He references to the differences in technology in what he did and did not have access to, and why he had to do stuff in that way. He also explains what older technology he references, in case the reader doesn’t know about it. And all these explanations comes in a very easy-to-read way, that feels like a part of the story.

Since my expectations on the book comes from a place of misinformation/misunderstanding, I did feel disappointed by the book. But I think, if I had known that this was a memoir or nonfiction, I would have been pleasantly surprised. This book is nothing like my expectations of a nonfiction book, with it being boring and hard to read. This book was easy to read, quick and interesting. I finished it in less than 5 hours, and in one sitting.

[Darshayita Thakur · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has my heart. I want to thank Netgalley, the Publisher, and the author for providing me with this e-ARC.
This is the story of a young boy called Justin. No, he does not turn into a bear, but he does love them. He loves all animals, except maybe reptiles. He is just scared of those scaly creatures.
This is the story of a thirteen year-old finding himself through animals. Speaking up for them, working up a thick phone bill calling people and organisations that can help them from the deplorable conditions that they face in zoos and in captivity.
The language is simple and since it is written in the first person narrative, it suits the role of a boy that age. However, its simplicity is not to be undermined, it packs a punch, and you might need a tissue or two.
Besides his journey in rescuing two bear siblings named Ursula and Brutus, after whom the publication is lovingly named (I am guessing), we also get to see how Justin tackles issues such as bullying, understanding and coming to terms with his sexuality, working out a way to communicate with his parents and to make them understand how close to his very existence these “projects” of his are.
The book manages to make us ask ourselves some very significant questions:
“What is important to you?
Who will you stand up for?
How will you make the world a better place?”

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jane Goodall speaks truth in her foreword, when she says you can't put this down and that it is read in one sitting!

"This was about justice, standing up for the voiceless, and helping people see that animals were more than food or entertainment. They had their own unique lives and deserved the same decency and respect that we all yearn for."

Give me animals, LGBTQ representation and mix in some fight for justice and that's ~90% of my personality and 100% of my social media timeline
This book completely transported me to the author's life, growing up in the 90's, while starting and creating his path in the animal rights movement, while growing up, finding himself and his people. I really enjoyed the writing style, making it easy to read and appealing to an YA audience.
Recommend for any animal lovers, social justice people and queer kids, for a bit of representation where being queer is an important facet of life presented alongside others. Also 90's teens might get a bit of nice nostalgia.

CW: Homophobia (F slur)/Bullying, Animal cruelty, Self harm (mention) and Toxic relationship (resolved)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC

[Alex Nonymous · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher for providing an eARC of Bear Boy in exchange for an honest review.

You can just tell while reading this that Justin Barker would be really, really, good at leading a school assembly. Bear Boy: The True Story of a Boy, Two Bears, and the Fight to Be Free is an autobiographical account of Barker's journey towards animal activism and it becomes apparent very quickly that while this would be a really good book to read out loud to an elementary schooler you want to get into activism, this book is only really categorized as YA because Justin's 13 a lot of the story, not because it's actually targeted at a YA audience. I think Barker did a really good job at telling his story in an easy to understand manner, but this is so clearly for younger readers that it didn't really work for me.

[Violeta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Digital ARC provided by Netgalley

Although still a minority, active young people are beginning to stand out as a group of heterogeneous and autonomous voices in the civic space. Justin is a 13-year-old with an important mission.
Armed with the information found on the internet, supported by parents, friends, teachers and international networks, active in various local groups and organizations, this would be the world of the young activist.
Justin organizes protests and campaigns to inform people about the conditions in which animals live at the zoo. I consider this a very important read for young adults to be informed and better educated. The author shows that people have the cognitive ability to conceptualize freedom and hope. And, as far as we know, animals don't. So, for them it's an even worse experience, because they can't even imagine a better future.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot wait for my oldest kid to read this book! I think she will be inspired by this beautiful true story. In Bear Boy, Justin Barker tells of his teenage years and how he discovered his purpose and himself along the way. No one is too young to make a difference. No voice should be discounted because it belongs to someone young. This book gave me hope that the world can be a better place and that people are able and willing to help, even if it takes a while to find them. Keep your eyes open for this YA memoir coming out in June! Thank you @netgalley and @justinbarkertv along with Brutus & Ursula LLC for this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kat · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read an early copy of this. This was such a fascinating read. So often when we’re young we find our passions but think there’s nothing we can do to work towards them. This story shows how untrue that is. It’s an inspiring tale of activism, passion, and self discovery. I wish I had this when I was a teen but I’m glad I was able to read it now.

[Splendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the reasons that I'm so bad at finishing books is that I often lose interest. It takes so long for stories to develop that I just can't stay focused. Bear Boy is what I would call a page turner. It's not a thriller or an action story, but there is an addictive quality to the nagging sensation of wondering what will happen next. As the main character becomes obsessed with his cause, his sense of urgency drives the story forward. A book like this encourages me to read more and stop punishing myself for giving up on so many half-read books! This one is a no-brainer, as the foreward is written by Jane Goodall, which is certainly a powerful stamp of approval.

I was drawn to the main character (a real person/true story!) because he’s able to show how confining the world feels when you’re a teenager: parents, rules, bullies, and the inner struggle associated with life’s unappealing expectations. We sometimes forget how much teenagers are carrying around emotionally. I got the sense that some of his obsession with the cause was a healthy way to escape anxiety. I work with teenagers, and I wondered as I read, how can we link teenagers who suffer from depression and anxiety with causes that matter to them, in the hopes that connecting to a higher purpose in life and helping others could become a form of healthy escapism, as it may have for Bear Boy.

This book is aimed at a young adult audience, but I’m an adult and I really loved it. Actually, I learned on Wikipedia that although Young Adult fiction (YA) is written for adolescent readers, approximately half of YA readers are adults. Ok, my people! This story is a snapshot of a moment in time, before people regularly used email. Before social media. And before whatever comes next in the evolution of communication in our lifetimes. Bear Boy spent years working toward his goal well before online activism was instantly possible via MoveOn.org or Change.org and other digital platforms. Justice doesn’t wait for the most convenient tools. It’s a timeless reminder that fighting for something that matters will give your life meaning.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I just want to say that I absolutely loved this book.

It is aimed at younger readers so it does lack some of the finesse that you might expect from a non-fiction, but as long as you go into this book with this in mind it is an excellent read.

This book flows beautifully, and I read it in just a few hours. As a Brit, I don't know much about Justin's story, and I'm so glad that this book gave me the opportunity to find out more.

At the beginning of the book, the author mentions that he became vegetarian after realising that meat came from animals. This really made me smile because I had this exact same exchange with my parents when at the age of 4/5 I found out that chicken meat came from chickens.

The story in this book is so uplifting. It's awful to hear about the terrible conditions that Brutus, Ursula and all the animals in Sacramento zoo and all of the other zoos mentioned. But hearing how one young boy was able to make such a large difference is so inspiring, and I can only imagine the reaction this book will get from animal loving young readers. It will really allow them to believe that they can be the change they want to see in the world.

I really really loved this book, and I would definitely recommend reading it!

Finally, I just want to say a huge thank you to netgalley who granted me an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.

[Ana Lopes · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC in change of an honest review through NetGalley, all the opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher for the ARC.

My Rating: 3.5

I did quite enjoy reading this book but I felt the pace was too slow for such a short book.
The story is based on a true story about James Barker, that finds out he's an animal lover and falls in love with two adult bears. Brutus and Ursula are these two bears that live in poor conditions in the Sacramento Zoo.
Justin makes his life goal to get a better home for them and gets everyone involved in the project.
We also follow Justin figuring out his sexuality and his taste in music and such.

I'm not too fond of rating memoirs/autobiographies because it's someone else's life and it seems wrong to do so. But just because I found it okay doesn't mean you won't like it.

[Aiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This memoir is one of the best ones I've ever read.

I didn't know much about the fight to save Brutus and Ursula before I read this book but it seems to have been portrayed accurately and without overdramatization. I really enjoyed the personal growth that was written alongside the activism, I felt like it showed that no one is perfect and even people doing amazing things have things to learn and ways they need to improve.

Barker's passion for animal rights is enviable, and I would recommend this book to anyone who feels like they're too young to get involved in causes they believe in. I love the way the book is written, its target audience is definitely younger and it's simple to understand while still spreading the amazing message.

I read this book in about 2 hours, it's quick, easy, and incredibly important. Everyone should pick up this story.