A story of determination, compassion and standing up for what you believe in. I had no prior knowledge of Justin’s story and it left me in awe. At just thirteen years old, he started to investigate the mistreatment of animals in zoos. His resilience and determination to keep going despite what patronising adults would say, is something to be admired by all.

A true story, it details his journey of animal rights activism, in a memoir that is equally informative and emotive. His fight to bring attention to the mistreatment of animals is only one aspect of this compelling memoir. We are also given a glimpse into the effects of bullying and how Justin overcomes this. We also see him find his identity as part of the LGBTQ community. What I found especially great about this memoir is that it shows how one identifies may change over time. Such honest, candid discussions need to happen more often. In books, films and real life. The book also illustrates that even if you are dating someone of the opposite gender, it does not invalidate your place in the LGBTQIA+ community. Erasure is a huge problem. To quote a tiktok video ‘have you realised that when men come out as bi, most people think they’re gay with apprehension? And when most women come as bi, most people think they’re straight and looking for attention’. Whether you identify as queer, bi, pan or other, erasure is a huge issue. It was great to see a book oh so subtly, but very effectively, shut down this black and white thinking.

I am astonished by all Justin achieved at such a young age. Young people are often not taken seriously when they raise valid concerns about the state of the planet, social norms or political issues. This memoir serves as an encouraging reminder that nobody is too small or too young to make a difference.

In her foreword, Jane Goodall says that this book 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’. I wholeheartedly agree. I read the book in one sitting and came away with a sense of hope and determination to fulfill my own dreams. A feel good book with an important message.

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!

An interesting book about a young man who is so outraged by animal cruelty that he starts a campaign to free two bears from their very restrictive cage. Not always a comfortable read, as it is told from the point of view of his teenage self, he appears a little lost with parents who aren't there when he gets in from school. One day he reads a book about animal rights and when he discovers that animals are taken from Africa and kept in terrible conditions in many Zoos in the US, he is outraged. His fervour for improving life for animals, including going vegetarian overnight is impressive. I don't agree with the way that he forces his friends to watch a PETA video in order for them to become vegetarian. Especially when he then says he is then able to accept his friend because tried to be vegetarian for a month. We also follow his journey of exploring his sexuality which was moving as he related to the way animals are bullied and funny when he discovers the Spice Girls. A bit over the top in places but I guess that is how he was able to make a difference for 2 bears in appalling conditions.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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

*Disclaimer I received this book for free, this will not affect my thoughts or feelings toward this work*

This book was such a great quick read that I think anyone can enjoy. While I did have few minor problems with the story feeling like the character was a Mary Sue based on the way it was written. I think everything else was done greatly. Justin's emotions at some points feel saw raw and understandably based on the events that happens to him. You understand where it comes from and it doesn't just seem like it comes out of nowhere. Overall I thought pacing was great and the story had a great cute message that I hope many apply to their own lives.

Bear Boy follows the story of Justin and his journey to animal activism which leads him to fight for Brutus and Ursula,two bears who are locked in a cage. It is also a story of finding the bravery to come out and accept your identity.

I knew I was going to like this one and it turns out I wasn't wrong. Justin's story moved me and him finally achieving his goals and accepting himself made feel like a proud mama.

A very different, yet really inspiring memoir/non fiction account of Justin and his animal activist experiences.
Really enjoy the coming.of age aspects to the story and found the book really interesting and in parts even a bit unbelievable!
Overall I enjoyed this and would recommend to other YA fans!
Thanks netgalley for the opportunity to read and review!

Justin Barker discovered his love for animals and knack for animal activism as a middle schooler living in the suburbs of Northern California. Despite school bullying, family strife, and an ongoing identity crisis, Barker was motivated to advocate for animals after picking up a copy of Ingrid Newkirk’s Kids Can Save the Animals! 101 Easy Things to Do at a used bookstore. Bear Boy: The True Story of a Boy, Two Bears, and the Fight to be Free is a young adult work that encapsulates Barker’s coming-of-age as both a queer teen boy and an animal activist.

Deemed “Bear Boy” by local media, Barker shares the story of how he fought to release two black bears, Brutus and Ursula, from cruel living conditions at a local zoo. Barker is as passionate in his activism as he is in his storytelling. Bear Boy is a thoughtful, honest portrayal of life as a young teen. Barker does not shy away from sharing family disputes, dismissal from adults in his life, or his experience coming out. The accessible, personable nature of Barker’s writing makes his story all the more engaging.

What makes Bear Boy perhaps most notable is the unapologetic nature of Barker’s perspective. So often vegan writers, understandably, feel the need to evidence their beliefs with facts about climate change, animal cognition, and the economic value of pursuing animal rights. Though there is absolutely value in adding these perspectives, Barker instead focuses on one issue: right versus wrong. Is it right to hold wild animals in captivity? Is it right to force bears to eat food that is not supportive of their dietary needs? Is it right to watch animals suffer and stand idly by? Rather than debate, Barker writes purely from emotion, a tactic that is sure to captivate readers.

Though written as a memoir for young adults, the story of Justin Barker and his persona “Bear Boy” is one for all ages. There is some relatable aspect of Barker’s story for everyone, both vegan and nonvegan alike. In addition to animal rights, Bear Boy artfully encapsulates themes of social isolation, identity, search for purpose, and parent/child conflict. Barker has a strong narrative voice and a powerful story to share. Ultimately, Bear Boy is a beautifully told, welcome addition to any bookshelf.

“Because people fighting hard fights in sometimes uncaring environments need all the encouragement they can get.” – Jane Goodall

Was this book absolutely perfect? No, probably not. At times the pacing seemed a little off and to be in the head of a 13yo is not always a fun time for a grownup. However, it also reminded me of when I was that age and it seemingly stayed very close to the reality and thought processes someone that age experiences. The story was not always a fun and light one, sometimes it made me tear up and angry. It shows the harsh reality and does not shy away from difficult topics. For me, this book could be 100 pages longer and I still would have devoured every word. The story was magnificent and a story that needed to be told. I’m so glad Justin Barker decided to share it.

It stands out that this book was meant to inspire and that it did. The story touched my heart and soul and inspired me to be/do better and to become the best version of myself. This is a wonderful message I would love to hand over to my kids (and any kids) one day. Even now, it keeps inspiring me to do more research into certain things mentioned and learn more in general about topics that are important to the story.

It gave me a more nuanced perspective to look at certain things like the concept of a zoo. I love that this book gives strong opinions yet always makes sure they are nuanced enough for the reader to form their own opinion. If you don’t want your perspective on certain things challenged, don’t pick up this book (and stay ignorant).

Loved the mention and the foreword of Jane Goodall, a person we can all learn so much from and definitely one of the best role models to have.

I would recommend this book to everyone of every age and every group. I think it has such beautiful messages, everyone will take something different but equally powerful from reading this book. Can’t recommend enough.

Thanks to NetGalley, Brutus & Ursula, LLC and most of all Justin Barker to grant me the opportunity to read and love this book!

TW: Homophobic comments and experiences, fatphobic comments and fatshaming of the main character, bullying, mention of self harm

DISCLAIMER: I received a review copy of Bear Boy from the publisher via NetGalley UK in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author Justin Barker, the publisher Brutus & Ursula and to NetGalley UK for the opportunity to review this title.

After visiting Penny – the black-footed cat his class had collectively adopted – at Sacramento Zoo in second grade, Justin Barker became aware of the poor living conditions of many animals in captivity for the first time. At age 13, he picked up and read a copy of Ingrid Newkirk’s “Kids Can Save the Animals: 101 Easy Things To Do”, not knowing that it would change his life forever. Disgusted by the meat industry, and appalled by the treatment of animals in zoos both nationally and worldwide, Justin became a vegetarian and animal activist, founding his own animal rights organisation Citizens Lobbying for Animals in Zoos (CLAZ) in 1996.

Starting with the animals at Sacramento Zoo, Justin began campaigning for improvements to their treatment and living conditions, making connections in the media, other well-known animal rights organisations and the National Council for Excellence in Zoo Animal Management in order to make changes happen. Having successfully held the city to account and inspiring tangible improvements, Justin then went on to campaign for the freedom of two black bears – Brutus and Ursula – who were living in deplorable conditions at the nearby Roseville Royer Park Zoo. He worked tirelessly to raise $250,000 in order to fund their relocation to the newly-built bear enclosure at the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, and eventually, saw his efforts come to fruition when the bears were moved to their new home. Bear Boy is Justin’s own account of his introduction to animal activism, his journey of self-discovery, and his open declaration that anyone can make a difference if they’ll only dare to try.

Reading Justin’s account of his teen activism, I couldn’t help but be in awe of his passion for animal rights, his self-motivation and his unwavering dedication to doing the right thing despite all of the difficulties and setbacks he faced. To accomplish so much at such a young age, and to be respected and reputed for his activism alongside adults who had been involved in similar organisations for longer than he had been alive in many cases, is truly incredible. It also made me realise once again the capacity young people have to inspire change, if having a goal in mind and the motivation and dedication needed to get there. Young activists such as Malala Yousafzai and Greta Thunberg immediately spring to mind when thinking of modern movements for change, and the impact they have each had in their respective fields of education and climate change cannot be ignored. With Justin, his love of animals shines through throughout Bear Boy, and to read about his triumphs – as well as his challenges – is empowering indeed.

It is inspiring to read about Justin’s journey of self-discovery as well. Having been bullied and degraded for his perceived sexuality, as well as for his geeky hobbies and introverted disposition, there is a lot that he experienced that is relatable for me. To read about him coming to terms with his sexuality – first identifying as gay, and then as queer – was insightful, and felt deeply personal. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been for him to manage his feelings about that, navigate his troubled relationships with his parents, as well as developing his new-found interest in animal activism. In terms of Justin himself, I found him to be someone incredibly likeable to read about, despite his often naive outlook that is reflected upon throughout. His arguments with his parents over the phone bills, for instance, were humorous but also deeply alarming to read about as an adult. If I had a child who racked up phone bills worth hundreds of dollars (or rather pounds, in my case) I’d be horrified and angry, too – even with my love of animals, and my wish for them to have the best lives possible! I was very glad to read about the growth in mindset of Justin’s parents, as well as his introduction to some true friends towards the end of the book. Knowing that he is still in touch with at least one of those friends today, as revealed in the epilogue, is heartwarming.

In terms of the writing, I did feel that at times, the narration of all of the changing elements of Justin’s life was not as defined as it could have been. In certain chapters, when the focus shifted rapidly between Justin’s personal life and his work to free Brutus and Ursula, it was difficult to feel the full intensity of either, and really appreciate how difficult it was to overcome the challenges he was facing. Perhaps writing alternating chapters that related to his personal journey, and then his activism, would have been a better structure for the book. I must say, however, that the foreword by fellow animal activist Jane Goodall was lovely to read, as was Justin's own epilogue after the main book had finished. Both convey their genuine interest in animal rights and activism, and the struggle to become champions for animals' welfare and good treatment.

I also felt that the book itself was quite short, despite the journey to free Brutus and Ursula encompassing multiple years. Perhaps the brevity was designed to only detail the necessary or significant events, or else make the book more accessible to younger readers, however I did feel that more detail could have been offered at points. It also would have been interesting to read or see direct materials published at the time about Justin’s work in the book, such as newspaper clippings, or verbatim emails he sent. These would have added an extra layer of detail and authenticity to the account of events, and also added a little extra context to the discussions being described. One last aspect of the writing that I would say to be aware of is the language used, as particularly in relation to Justin’s exploration of his sexuality, there are some slurs written for the accuracy of his account of the bullying he faced. These are present right from the start, and were shocking at first to see written so openly on the page. Younger readers should therefore be offered guidance and support if reading Bear Boy, to make sure that they do not see these phrases as ones to be repeated.

On the whole, I would recommend Bear Boy to anyone interested in animals and animal activism. It is an eye-opening account of one teenager’s actions to help animals in need, and is also inspiring for young people in that it shows just how capable they can be in driving change if they have the passion and motivation to do so. It is also a brief read, easily consumed in very few sittings, so would make the perfect book to read on a commute or as one for a younger reader to read with adult guidance and supervision. I did feel that more details could have been included, as well as some additional materials for context and reference, but the absence of these does not make Justin’s account of his activism journey any less worth reading.

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.

"I had learned something over the years: you can't force anyone into anything, and the best way to change minds is to share your knowledge, lead by example, and have patience."
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an EARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Before I get into my review, I feel as if it is necessary to point out that I am reviewing this book from two perspectives: that of a book lover and that of someone in the Animal Management profession with Conservation as a career.
So first of lets talk about this book from a book lover standpoint, it is a great and most importantly an accessible non fiction memoir that immediately grabs the reader. It is fast paced and short meaning that even those, like myself, that steer away from reading non fiction recreationally will find it an engaging read. There was so much self growth, self awareness and by the end self love in this book. A brilliant mixture of the exploration of being Queer and growing into your power in an unfair world. This is perfect for the target audience and is a story that is so needed for young people and great representation for them to have.
Now, in terms of the actual Animal Rights content of this book I have some more complex feelings compared to my overall thoughts mentioned above. I do think that it suffers slightly in the right intention, wrong execution when you consider it is being advertised to young people who are impressionable and do not have the breadth of knowledge needed to read between the lines and have some more nuanced discussions when it comes down to ethical arguments for and against zoos. In this sense I do wish there had been just a chapter at the end of the book to lay out some key messages, told in a way that encompasses the authors views as a now adult. There were a few times within the text that mentioned how zoos are necessary to keep these animals alive and healthy and what can be done in terms of husbandry to keep them that way but in my opinion it could have been clearer to avoid the potentially very real issue of misinformation and bias.
I want to make it clear. The author clearly loves animals. However, you can love animals and still support zoos responsibly, failure to do so would in fact be a major hinderance to the vital work being done to protect them. Focus energy on the high up companies and management that are keeping animals unfairly, do not use this book as fuel to look down upon the work that zoo keepers are doing. There is always someone willing to take that job, let it be someone who actually cares.
I want to reiterate, that I don't think the author would oppose to the sentiments I have just addressed (unless he is and that's a different story) but it was something that I felt should have been laid out more clearly.

I was interested in this book as a lifetime animal lover and someone who fights for animal rights and on that front this book really delivered. I just felt like a few things felt unrealistic or stretched to make this book seem more interesting which would be fine if this wasn't a Non-fiction book. Overall this was a good book I just don't think it's for me.

This book is a YA memoir, our author is also the protagonist. Tells us the story of how at a young age he became an animal activist and found himself living in his own coming-of-age story. Justin is a boy who is sensitive and has problems connecting with others at school and at home, he is bullied and he feels like his family does not understand him. So, he usually keeps his head down but one day, he finds inspiration in a book where he acquires motivation and passion to give voice to those who don't have one, animals. He vigorously researches ways to help, to make a difference and he starts slow by being vegetarian, then he looks in the zoo’s conditions and from there he finds direction towards something bigger. In his fight to help animals, he not only discovers his own voice but his true value.

"It was unbelievable that by asking the right questions, working hard, and insisting that people pay attention I could actually have an impact in the world..."

A beautiful memoir of self-love, passion, dedication, tenacity and identity. It's a pretty straightforward plot, his writing style is simple but with so much emotion that it is perfect for young readers to be captivated and encouraged to speak up. It's a short read but with a lot of impact, he gives us hard facts, humor and sentiment. In other words, this book is excellent, something I would totally recommend and can't wait to share with my own boys.

Until Bear Boy, I don't think I had ever read a book in less than 12 hours. Justin's general sassiness captured my heart. I didn't realize when I requested this book from NetGalley, that this was a nonfiction story. Generally, I don't read those. I have to admit though that this didn't read like what I would consider to be a typical nonfiction story.

I originally chose this book because it was marked as LGBTQ+ but those elements really took a backseat to the animal activism and I didn't find myself caring very much. I just loved reading about all the good that Justin was doing for the world and watching him grow in his own confidence.

When this book is published, I HIGHLY suggest you buy it and gift it to a young person in your life (or yourself if you are a young person). This is exactly the type of book that I needed when I was growing up and trying to figure out where I belonged in the world. It's truly empowering.

An incredible story of passion, persistence, and the long journey to justice. This is a topic close to my own heart, and if the next generation need any more inspiration, they will definitely find it here, along with a few ideas on how to effect change (hint: it’s all about the press).
As a 13-year-old, the best I could do in my small city was become a vegetarian and tell all my friends about it – the word ‘protest’ was almost laughable. With the BLM and SS4C movements in recent years at my university, protests are becoming a lot more common.
Thank you, Justin, for your dedication to animal rights, and for writing a story that I truly believe will inspire people the way that pink book in the second-hand store inspired you.

When I first picked this book, I felt wary, as non-fiction isn't exactly my preferred genre- I generally read ya fiction.
However, I fell in love with it!

It was very simply written, but the message it passed was beautiful and heartwarming. There were times when I was tearing up, and there were times where I felt angry at how the animals were being treated. It was inspiring to read about how hard work, determination and perseverance could change the world, and I loved to read about how so many people supported the cause and worked to help the bears.

This book actually made me feel a little better about my power to change the world. As an aspiring writer, I felt as if I was too young to be able to write something of significance, but this book taught me a lesson: everyone can bring about change, no matter how young!

This is a truly inspiring story about Justin and his work for animal rights. I hope that many people read it and find that it inspires them to help out the world around them too. Every little thing counts.

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC!

Bear Boy is primarily the story of one teenage boy and his crusade to help rescue two endangered black bears from the squalid conditions of their former zoo habitat, but it's also the story of how that teen boy navigated a great deal of confusion and turmoil to arrive at a true sense of self and belonging because of his efforts as an activist in the turbulent 90s. A complex story, and one full of many twists and turns, Bear Boy also stands as an example of how people are often far more than we give them credit for at first blush and that even children can rise and stand for things that they believe in strongly enough to see those beliefs through to completion. I don't think there's a lot more I can say about the book other than to say that I was impressed with the things that Justin managed to do with little more than the efforts of his own two hands, one voice, and a whole lot of legwork and phone calls. I think this book could inspire many kids like Justin, waiting for the world to give them something to invest in and grow from. I, for one, hope it does.

"I hoped they were together again in some place where there were no cages."

Such an amazing book. Justin Barker's story is an important one starting from when he was a 13 year old activist and vegetarian boy, fighting for the rights of two bears and against zoos and the mayor for mistreating animals. I thoroughly enjoyed his view of the world and his love for animals. One second he'd be talking about different societies and resources about animal rights and the next second he'd be ranting about the toughs of highschool. His perspective was so new, fresh and most importantly hopeful, it made me realize that if we fight for our believes and stand by them then we can achieve what ever we want. It's a book that I would've for finished in one sitting if it hadn't been for my exams especially because it is heavily based on the authors life and that alone just made me so happy that I have convinced my 11 year sister -who never ever reads books, to also read this once it comes out (which she and I both are so very excited for). I would 100% recommend it to anyone who is looking for a cute, short book filled with activism and to all parents who want to open their children's eyes to such thing and want to broaden their view (I'm not necessarily saying it for children, it is also an incredible and eye-opening read for older audiences).