Bear Boy

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.

2.5 Stars.

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.

I read this story with YA in mind. I hope those who read it find that it feeds their inspiration to do big things.

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.

Wow! Justin Barker did more with his life before graduating high school than I think most of us have done with our entire lives. BEAR BOY is Justin's story which starts when he was inspired by a used book he picked up in a store that taught children how to help animals. Justin took the book's teachings to heart and became a vegetarian. He also spent his summer monitoring the Sacramento Zoo and setting out to improve the conditions for the animals who lived there. Justin didn't just hold a bake sale on the corner. He called city officials. He met with zoo directors and keepers. He contacted animal rights groups. He was a dedicated boy who stayed focused on his mission.

After accomplishing a lot of work at the zoo, Justin sets up his own animal rights organization and is contacted about 2 bears living in a defunct zoo in deplorable conditions. Suddenly, Justin has a new mission! He wants to save these bears and move them to a better location, but it will take a lot of money to do it.

Justin tells his story in a straightforward manner. It's as if you've set down with him over dinner and you are listening to him tell his life story. Not since reading Babylon's Ark: The Incredible Wartime Rescue of the Baghdad Zoo have I enjoyed a story about an activist who is so inspired by their cause. Justin also tells the reader about his high school woes and bullies, and his exploration of his sexuality as he navigates high school and finds friends who accept him.

If you have a teenager who might be struggling to find their place in this world, who loves animals, or who might be questioning their sexuality, BEAR BOY is an inspirational story about one boy's love for animals and his dedication to improving the world we live in, find friends like him, and to give focus to his life.

A very inspiring story. It's great to know how one person can make big changes. Reading this reminds me of this phrase: "Being young and not being revolutionary is a biological contradiction" or as Taylor Swift would say "only the young can run" hahaha
A book about big dreams that are achieved with slow but sure steps, and that change is within reach as long as we want it, even if you have the whole world against you

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? I mean, come on, it's called turkey and that's the same name as the animal. 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.

Bear Boy is an adventure through the eyes of a vulnerable young man going through puberty and a radical revolution. Justin is a hero that is easy to feel for, easy to care for, and easy to cheer for. His diligence and hard work blew me away - he is a motivated and passionate teenager who cares more for the world around him than most adults. This books is heartwarming, inspiring, and captivating! Highly recommend!

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.

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.

** 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.

Bear Boy is the inspiring story of a teenager who finds himself through activism and standing up for what he believes in. It's the story of how sometimes all it takes is one dedicated person to create positive change in the world, no matter who they are. What is especially great about this book is how the different challenges Justin experiences as a teenager - a difficult relationship with his parents, discovering his sexuality, bullies at school, and his activism - are not separate. Just like in real life, his struggles overlap and affect each other, and what might improve one (networking and growing his activism efforts) might worsen another (Justin and his parents getting in fights about the large phone bill). This is a great book to show teenagers and kids to say "Look - you can make a difference too."

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!

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.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with this ebook! Bear Boy was a beautiful and inspiring story from the very beginning all the way to its end. 13 year old Justin is a boy with a lot of passion and dedication that it is simply so moving. The extent of his passion had me in tears at times, he just wanted to improve the world and help those animals who no one else stood up for. If only everyone was like Justin. then maybe our world would be a better place.

Bear Boy by Justin Barker is a great addition to any middle grade classroom library. It tackles topics like animal rights activism and coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community with honesty and heart.

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.

4.5/5 stars!

<b> 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 </b>

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.

<b> 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. </b>

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.

<b> 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. </b>

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.

<b> [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. </b>

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.

i loved to see justin's growth and maturity, how he extended more and more empathy and understanding to his parents as time went on. it was such a treat to read about his journey with his identity and sexuality while dealing with the hard ships of activism as a young person, and bullying. the author captured so well what it felt like being a kid with no authority and being continually dismissed even when you raised valid concerns. i also loved the latest reflection about trying to get family and friends to stop eating meat but ultimately understanding that it's up to them. i too was once a kid that would get in fights about bacon for breakfast but have grown to reconcile that you can log someone and not agree with everything they do.

an informative, quick, emotional read. highly recommend!

"This was about justice, standing up for the voiceless, and helping people see that animals were more than food or entertainment."

This quote sums up the way Justin feels about his passion for animals in Bear Boy. At times this passion felt a little too intense for me, but I kept reading because I wanted to see where this journey would take him (and the bears!).

Although parts of the story (the bear focus, the personal journey, etc) felt a bit disjointed to me, it came together beautifully at the end. In the end, this story was about discovering your place in the world, pursuing your passion, and realizing how important it is to be yourself and not give up on your dreams.

Readers who are passionate about animal welfare will love this story. Young people who are grappling with their place in the world or their passions would also enjoy this story. (There is some adult language, so heads up).

This whole book completely blew me away. Stunning imagery backed up by such powerful words. I loved it!!

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.

Thank you to NetGalley and Brutus & Ursula LLC for the privilege of reading an ARC of this book.

It’s the true story of a young boy standing up for what he believes in, and doing the right thing. No matter how insurmountable it seemed. This is the proof that everyone can make our world a better place, and even children can make a powerfull impact. Which is an important lesson to teach all children.

What Justin Barker did for Brutus, Ursula and all the other animals is inspiring. Bear Boy is a true story that should be taught in school, to help educate children about acceptance and humanity.

This is the proof that we are all capable of amacing feats, if we persevere and stand up for ourselves and for others.

Fabulous read! Highly suggested!
The story is well written and engaging, I promise you won't be able to put this book down.
Bear Boy made me laugh, cry, and filled my heart with hope.

"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).

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

“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

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

*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 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.

A story of a young boy fighting animal cruelty in the days before it was fashionable and succeeding against all the odds to rescue two bears held captive by ignorance and inertia. Makes you think and take a hard look at your own actions.

An inspiring account of how a thirteen-year-old kid went to rescuing 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.

4/5🌟.
TW: Bullying, Animal abuse and Anger issues.

I finished Bear Boy three hours ago. And it's been two hours since I sat in front of my computer saying I was going to write a review but I could barely write a word. This book left me speechless.
I only started reading memoirs very recently but Bear Boy is definitely one of my favorite memoirs until now and WOW Justin Barker has one of the most amazing stories I ever saw.
During Bear Boy, we see not only the trajectory of Barker's journey to save Ursula and Brutus but also his personal growth. It was a fast reading and most of the time I got really excited to know what was going to happen next and since the very beginning, I found myself questioning why I never did even half of the effort Justin did? Because, sincerely, I didn't have much things that could stop me from doing it. It was a very reflexive and enjoyable reading and I recommend it for everyone.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange of an honest review.

What a great inspirational read! BEAR BOY is an inspirational story about one boy's love for animals and his dedication to improving the world we live in, find friends like him, and to give focus to his life.
Definitely recommend this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I got an ARC of this book.

So I am all about saving animals. I am the first person to leap from a car to see if I can save an animal in the street. I have been late to work and lost all of my cookies bribing stray dogs into my car and getting them medical care. My boss is so used to this that she just asks me to save her a single cookie or send her pictures of my new friends. I am the type to bottle feed animals that are rejected by their mother and find them homes, even when my life is falling apart. The few times I skipped school, was to go to animal rights protests (I was caught on the news). So I understand a bit of what Barker did and felt. I focus more on the animals in front of me, Barker focuses more on animals that need bigger help. I respect and appreciate Barker.

The book was really quick. It very much read as middle grade or maybe young adult. I appreciated this. I loved that Jane Goodall was the one who wrote the introduction. Goodall is a HUGE name in the animal world and someone that would be beyond incredible to ever meet. Seeing her endorsing the book and her knowing of Barker was huge.

My main issue with the book is that Barker never renounced PETA or acted like they were anything but perfect. I was also a member of PETA at one point, well the young adult version. Peta has been called out for so many things from blaming dairy for Autism to flat out lying about what is happening. There have been allegations for years, I learned about that within a few weeks of joining PETA and immediately stopped. With all of those controversies around PETA it leaves a bad taste in my mouth that Barker did not at least mention the issues or say that he his organization is doing things differently. Something to recognize that the group is not perfect. Instead, if I was the right age range for this book I would have thought PETA was amazing and wanted to join. This feels false and makes me question Barker as an activist.

If you ignore my issues with PETA, then this was a great read. It helped show just how much difference one person can make if they aren’t afraid to run up a phone bill. He earned the nickname of Bear Boy at 14 years old. At 13 he was taking on a zoo that did not provide what the animals needed. This is exactly the sort of book I needed in middle school. He is very much a role model for supporting and helping animals. I may not agree with him on all points, but we can agree that animals deserve better.

*Disclaimer: As this is a real-life experience, the star rating is based on the quality of the book and not the experience being written about.*

Normally you would not see me choosing to read a middle-grade book, much less non-fiction. Bear Boy reminded me that even if a book is not the genre or age range I normally gravitate to, I can still enjoy the story and characters. Justin Barker's story is inspiring and motivational, especially for young readers who may pick up this book. If you are hesitating to read because it is not what you typically read, consider picking this up because the story engages and relates to the reader as well as most other fiction books I have read.

Thank you NetGalley and Brutus & Ursula LLC for my e-arc of this title, received in exchange for an honest review.

A true life, coming-of-age story about a boy who discovers his passion for animal rights activism and works against the odds to free two black bears from horrific living conditions in a defunct zoo.

A quick and easy read, with an engaging prose and easy to follow narrative. It felt like listening to a friend tell me a story-where I could feel the passion and their eagerness to share with me. From dealing with feelings of isolation as a young teen, to finding a passion and a cause, learning about his own identity and finding his place in the world, Justin’s story was heartwarming throughout and wrapped up with a genuinely uplifting message. This book encourages a deeper appreciation and understanding of the world around us and all those who inhabit it.

This was a beautiful and heartwarming story for both teen and older readers, I would highly recommend.

i was lucky enough to be approved this wonderful story on netgalley & i’m so glad i picked it up. this is such an inspiring memoir about a 13 year old boy who rescued two bears from his local zoo where they were living in ridiculously unacceptable conditions.
the writing was simple and easy to read which felt perfect considering the age of the POV and helped make the story flow nicely. as a vegetarian and an animal lover, i felt the rage the author was conveying and the hope and joy toward the end.
i also thoroughly enjoyed the pure hope this book brings you & the message that you can do anything you put your mind do. i reccomend this to readers of all ages but particuarly those who need to know they can achieve anything.
i also really enjoyed that the writer didn’t leave out parts of his teenage-hood including the struggle of understanding his identity and coming out to his parents, along with the talk of going to therapy, bullying and getting a better relationship with his parents.
this book truly demonstrates how important is to speak up about things you care about.
i loved this.

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 the 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:

I love books about animals, and so I was very excited when Netgalley offered 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 incredibly inspiring and moving story about a lonely teenage boy 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 throughout provoked empathy and encouraged me to try 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 was 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. I encourage everyone to give this one a read!

I wasn't entirely sure what I was getting into, since it was the title and the cover that got me into this book.

It was interesting, not at all what I was expecting, and a story that I think a lot of people could enjoy.

*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy*

This book is a fantastic memoir about a boy fighting for animals while navigating the struggles of growing up. Justin finds his passion for animals in a used bookstore and this book follows his actions for the next few years.
I loved seeing Justin’s passion for animals influencing the decisions that he makes. His relationship with his family is also affected by his activism, and it is interesting to see how that played out as well. Additionally, he learned how to navigate relationships in high school and how to come out to his family. Another fantastic part of this book is the foreword by Jane Goodall.
This is definitely a great non-fiction read for younger teens, whether they are interested in becoming animal activists or not.

What an inspiring story! I really enjoyed learning about Justin's journey and it felt like I was right there with him. I really admire Justin's dedication and how passionate he is about animal rights. I recommend this book to everyone, especially those who love inspiring nonfiction stories!

Thank you to Net Galley and Justin Barker for the ARC :)

Save the queers , save the bears!!
Thank you @netgalley and @justinbarkertv for that earc

True story about justin a 13 years old kid in the 90's who go to a library and take a random book "how to save animals". From there he take little changes and acts like starting to be vegan, calling zoos for their poor structures for the animals... And its working. His family changes, zoos are being more careful, people are calling and help him to do his activism. One day he get letter that two bears are being held poorly in a near zoo. He is looking at them and get one goal in mind. He will do everything to free them into better conditions, even if its to raise half million dollars, while being only a kid that not really fit in the world and where you only figuring your own stuff.

That book is for avery little kid, to show them how it is to dream and that they can accomplish everything they want. The little and big changes they can do. For the grown up who can still acts, and do more cause They put their mind into it. This book is giving hope and cheer up and say "get out of your couch and do something". Should be a book kids read at school. (Teachers you know what to do)
If you are expecting some deep bound with the bear and that they hug and touch at the end like some disney movie, sorry to disappoint, but his love for the bears are infinate, teaches him, making him braver into the world.

And yeah nothing kinky in this book.

Thank you netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for a review.
Activism isn't easy, but this is a beautiful story about fighting for what is good and fair. It's a very good book for teenagers who care about animals, but a good read for adults too, because we should never forget that kids and teenagers have ideas and they deserve to express themselves and be heard.
Activism in 2021 and the 90's isn't necessarily the same, because society changed a bit, internet changed a lot of things, but the message stays the same : some things are worth fighting for, and we should be loud and let everyone know about unfaire situations and do our best to change them.
This is also a beautiful story about being a teenager, discovering who you are and making friends

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital arc for this book.
Bear Boy is about a passionate young boy named Justin who is on a mission to save the lives of 2 bears at a local zoo.
Justin realises that animals are treated badly and becomes a vegetarian and vows to change the conditions for them at the zoo.
He battles his parents, adults, the mayor and he also lobby’s the press.
It’s a wonderful account of his life and his coming of age. He is unsettled in school and he comes across as awkward. During his mission he ends up moving away for 6 months. It is here where the book comes alive. Justin grows up a lot and starts to realise who he is.
This book is ideal for teaching young children that they can achieve anything they set their mind too. It also teaches you respect and educates about animal rights. It would make a great addition to any school library.

For some reason, I thought this was (true story inspired) fiction, so the memoir aspect caught me a bit off guard (it’s also harder to rate because it’s not just a story, it’s someone’s life). I settled into it quickly, though, and the author’s animal activism accomplishments were impressive and a great example of how much young people can achieve and how important it is to listen to them and take their concerns seriously. In terms of Justin’s specific focus (advocating for zoo animal rights), it’s also a great illustration of how change IS possible, and in a relatively short time. I remember seeing zoos of the kind he describes in the 90s: profit-driven enterprises with appalling conditions and little concern for the animals they housed. I don’t know the extent to which that’s changed in the US since then but in many countries there’s definitely been a massive shift in the work of zoos in the past few decades, and now they do invaluable conservation work and are a massive part of advocating for wildlife (I’m a member at my local zoo and their passion and commitment to conservation work are incredible). It’s pretty inspiring, and efforts like Justin’s surely were a driving force towards that change.

In terms of the book itself, it was a quick and interesting read, though ultimately it didn’t feel as engaging as I’d hoped. The writing itself is not exactly polished, but it’s frank and passionate and the author is pretty candid about the less flattering aspects of being a privileged, single-minded teenager with a fine disregard for what he considers obstacles (I’m pretty sure any parent would lose their cool if their kid ran up hundreds of dollars in phone bills every month, and the sneering at anyone who wouldn’t embrace vegetarianism was off-putting). It was a bit scattered at times, as it veered back and forth between Justin’s animal activism and personal life, the latter dipping into serious issues like bullying and the challenges of coming out. It was all important stuff, but the book is quite short, so it invariably ended up feeling like a somewhat hurried compilation rather than an in-depth exploration. I’m also not sure what age group this is geared towards; it read like an inspirational treatise for a younger audience (including explanations of such ancient tech as Rolodex and fax machines) but does contain swearing and derogatory slurs.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A very inspiring story proving that every voice does in fact matter and that change is possible. Never give up on your dreams.

"This little treasure gave me chills, watery eyes, a wild fire burning in my chest."

"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."