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My Boyfriend Is a Bear
Nora has bad luck with men. When she meets an (actual) bear on a hike in the Los Angeles hills, he turns out to be the best romantic partner she’s ever had! He’s considerate. He’s sweet. He takes care of her. But he’s a bear, and winning over her friends and family is difficult. Not to mention he has to hibernate all winter. Can true love conquer all?
176 pages, Paperback
First published April 24, 2018
24 people are currently reading
3414 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Ribon
44 books447 followersPamela Ribon is a screenwriter (Moana, Ralph Breaks the Internet, Bears), performer, TV writer, comic book writer, best-selling novelist, and a Film Independent Directing Lab Fellow.
She is currently adapting her original comic book series SLAM! — co-created with Veronica Fish — as an animated half-hour with Rooster Teeth and Minnow Mountain for HBO Max. She is attached to direct (with Paul Franklin) her live-action feature adaptation of her critically-acclaimed graphic novel My Boyfriend is a Bear (co-created with Cat Farris). She is also adapting her comedic memoir NOTES TO BOYS (AND OTHER THINGS I SHOULDN’T SHARE IN PUBLIC) as an animated series for FX’s CAKE.
Pamela was a flagship contributor to Television Without Pity, and is known as a pioneer in the blogging world with pamie.com, where she launched such viral essays as “How I Might Have Just Become the Newest Urban Legend” and “Barbie Fucks it Up Again,” the latter of which led to #FeministHackerBarbie, a revamp of Mattel’s products and marketing for Barbie, and the creation of Game Developer Barbie as “Career of the Year.” Pamela’s stage work has been showcased at the HBO US Comedy Arts Festival and she created the accidental international scandal known as Call Us Crazy: The Anne Heche Monologues.
A former Austinite with a BFA in Acting from the University of Texas, Pamela has been entered into the Oxford English Dictionary under “muffin top.” That is not a joke. @pamelaribon | she/her
She is currently adapting her original comic book series SLAM! — co-created with Veronica Fish — as an animated half-hour with Rooster Teeth and Minnow Mountain for HBO Max. She is attached to direct (with Paul Franklin) her live-action feature adaptation of her critically-acclaimed graphic novel My Boyfriend is a Bear (co-created with Cat Farris). She is also adapting her comedic memoir NOTES TO BOYS (AND OTHER THINGS I SHOULDN’T SHARE IN PUBLIC) as an animated series for FX’s CAKE.
Pamela was a flagship contributor to Television Without Pity, and is known as a pioneer in the blogging world with pamie.com, where she launched such viral essays as “How I Might Have Just Become the Newest Urban Legend” and “Barbie Fucks it Up Again,” the latter of which led to #FeministHackerBarbie, a revamp of Mattel’s products and marketing for Barbie, and the creation of Game Developer Barbie as “Career of the Year.” Pamela’s stage work has been showcased at the HBO US Comedy Arts Festival and she created the accidental international scandal known as Call Us Crazy: The Anne Heche Monologues.
A former Austinite with a BFA in Acting from the University of Texas, Pamela has been entered into the Oxford English Dictionary under “muffin top.” That is not a joke. @pamelaribon | she/her
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,005 reviews
September 10, 2018
this is just a sweet breezy romance story of a girl who loves a bear.
it’s not played for provocative lady/bear taboo like Bear, nor is it going full bore to smuttown like The Maiden and the Bear Gods or Mounted by a Monster: Poking the Werebear nor is it intentionally blending humor and smut like Sex Bear: The Legend Continues/Sex Bear: The Choad Warrior. and while i'm in the midst of being shocked at the number of books i have read that involve humans and bears in intimate entanglements, it is not about a stuffed bear like Taming My Teddy Bear nor a shapeshifting bear like Bearly a Lady and it is indeed about a real fuzzy wuzzy bear and not a bear in its "i really shoulda known better" slang usage like The Bear and the Scout Master.
i did not realize i had such an interest.
like Bearly a Lady, it has a romantic comedy vibe, but it's not relying wholly on the situational laffs of the mixed-species kissin' - you can read it, if you please, as a metaphorical bear, filled as it is with the generalized free-floating anxieties that infect all relationships.
but it’s equally true that there are certain conflicts that will only arise when your lover is a bear, like “how to deal with the strain hibernation puts on a budding relationship.”and, of course, dealing with the reactions of friends, family, and ex-lovers, to the announcement that you are dating a bear.
but, really, what good would your friends be if they didn’t instantly disapprove of anyone with whom you chose to share your heart, beast or no beast? so that one works as metaphor, too, BOOM!
dating a bear is very much like any relationship - getting to know all about each other
the learning curves
the pros
and cons
working out how to sleep comfortably alongside a new body
and, most importantly, making sure the cat’s on board with your new love.
literally
it’s a frothy little bonbon of a book, an escapist smile that is not at all pervy, even if, unlike me, this is your first human/bear romantic rodeo.
rarrrrr
come to my blog!
it’s not played for provocative lady/bear taboo like Bear, nor is it going full bore to smuttown like The Maiden and the Bear Gods or Mounted by a Monster: Poking the Werebear nor is it intentionally blending humor and smut like Sex Bear: The Legend Continues/Sex Bear: The Choad Warrior. and while i'm in the midst of being shocked at the number of books i have read that involve humans and bears in intimate entanglements, it is not about a stuffed bear like Taming My Teddy Bear nor a shapeshifting bear like Bearly a Lady and it is indeed about a real fuzzy wuzzy bear and not a bear in its "i really shoulda known better" slang usage like The Bear and the Scout Master.
i did not realize i had such an interest.
like Bearly a Lady, it has a romantic comedy vibe, but it's not relying wholly on the situational laffs of the mixed-species kissin' - you can read it, if you please, as a metaphorical bear, filled as it is with the generalized free-floating anxieties that infect all relationships.
but it’s equally true that there are certain conflicts that will only arise when your lover is a bear, like “how to deal with the strain hibernation puts on a budding relationship.”and, of course, dealing with the reactions of friends, family, and ex-lovers, to the announcement that you are dating a bear.
but, really, what good would your friends be if they didn’t instantly disapprove of anyone with whom you chose to share your heart, beast or no beast? so that one works as metaphor, too, BOOM!
dating a bear is very much like any relationship - getting to know all about each other
the learning curves
the pros
and cons
working out how to sleep comfortably alongside a new body
and, most importantly, making sure the cat’s on board with your new love.
literally
it’s a frothy little bonbon of a book, an escapist smile that is not at all pervy, even if, unlike me, this is your first human/bear romantic rodeo.
rarrrrr
come to my blog!
Read
February 14, 2018I received an ARC of this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was waiting for this to be some kind of metaphor about dating, but it was literally just about a girl who dates a bear??? I hesitate calling this cute and funny because it literally references them having sex and stuff too so i'm just like uhhhhh...... ok......... I read it in one sitting and the art and dialogue was funny, but I just really don't understand. If they would have kept it platonic, it would have sat so much better with me, but it's just freaky how this girl was sexually attracted to an animal. So.
I was waiting for this to be some kind of metaphor about dating, but it was literally just about a girl who dates a bear??? I hesitate calling this cute and funny because it literally references them having sex and stuff too so i'm just like uhhhhh...... ok......... I read it in one sitting and the art and dialogue was funny, but I just really don't understand. If they would have kept it platonic, it would have sat so much better with me, but it's just freaky how this girl was sexually attracted to an animal. So.
December 21, 2018
Yes, her boyfriend is literally a bear. No, this isn't "normal".
I was so confused by the premise of this book before reading it. I wondered, Is her boyfriend a shape-shifter? Is he cursed? Do people frequently date animals in this world? and the answers to those questions are no, no, and no. Honestly, though, this is one of the funniest and CUTEST graphic novels I've ever read in my life. I laughed out loud a few times at just how off-the-wall and blunt some panels were. There are some incredibly sad moments as well, so don't expect 100% rainbows and sunshine, but truly, it's a delightful graphic novel I'd recommend anyone to pick up.
October 18, 2018
So, when I first see the title I think it is an m/m romance featuring a big hairy guy, but no! It's the story of a young woman in her twenties who has had no luck with men. We get two facing pages of cartooned exes who are painfully familiar losers she has dated. Girl then meets a nice bear in the woods. The odds are against this working, with all the obvious obstacles, but hey, love conquers all, apparently. Or maybe. Anyway, I thought it was all refreshingly funny.
Her friends and parents are, let's say, concerned. He's a bear, honey!!! Can't you see there's no future in this for you? While he cleans up very well and rocks a sharp suit when they go out for dinner, but well, he is 500 pounds, and getting bigger. It's a small apartment! Some friends like it that he juggles. And seems nice. He can be a good cuddle if you're VERY careful. But no, they can't really have kids, no, you realize that.
A couple interesting details I like:
*While he understands her, he can only say GRAH. This is funny throughout.
*He is not good for her cat; so one thing he does is build a series of shelves for it so it won't get crushed.
*The bear gets sloshed one time and does some property damage; they fight. Hey lovers fight sometimes! But this is an indication that this might not be a wise life direction for them. . .
*And of course the bear has to take several months to hibernate! Can love last when they are apart
that long?
Sweet, funny, sweetly illustrated by Cat Farris!
Her friends and parents are, let's say, concerned. He's a bear, honey!!! Can't you see there's no future in this for you? While he cleans up very well and rocks a sharp suit when they go out for dinner, but well, he is 500 pounds, and getting bigger. It's a small apartment! Some friends like it that he juggles. And seems nice. He can be a good cuddle if you're VERY careful. But no, they can't really have kids, no, you realize that.
A couple interesting details I like:
*While he understands her, he can only say GRAH. This is funny throughout.
*He is not good for her cat; so one thing he does is build a series of shelves for it so it won't get crushed.
*The bear gets sloshed one time and does some property damage; they fight. Hey lovers fight sometimes! But this is an indication that this might not be a wise life direction for them. . .
*And of course the bear has to take several months to hibernate! Can love last when they are apart
that long?
Sweet, funny, sweetly illustrated by Cat Farris!
December 2, 2022
One day while camping with her nasty boyfriend Ben, Nora encounters a black bear. Shortly thereafter, she and Ben break up, and Nora and (the much nicer) Bear become involved, to the confusion and dismay of most of Nora's friends and family. My Boyfriend is a Bear is an extended metaphor for romantic relationships that don't get an automatic seal of approval. Unfortunately, author Pamela Ribon squandered an opportunity to use that metaphor to communicate something thought-provoking, and neither Nora nor Bear are interesting or endearing, so it's hard to feel warmth for either or to root for the relationship. More than anything, though, My Boyfriend is a Bear is unable to rise above its overwhelming weirdness to share whatever charms it may have.
Two stars because the illustrations by Cat Farris are clean, colorful, and expressive.
Two stars because the illustrations by Cat Farris are clean, colorful, and expressive.
May 13, 2018
This was... really odd lol. The art was ADORABLE but I feel like the plot of this was lacking the charm that I assumed it was going to have. Mehhhhhh.
March 27, 2019
Tail as old as time,
Furry as can be,
Bearly even friends…
Disney has a lot to answer for. Like their monopolising of the entertainment market? Their meddling of the copyright laws to ensure Mickey Mouse never becomes public domain? Nah. I think it’s seriously screwed up an entire generation who grew up watching talking animals and that’s partly why we’ve now got this anti-meat/vegan thing going on, the plain bizarre furry scene and this book!
My Boyfriend is a Bear is not about a hairy gay guy, it’s not a metaphor for some slob this chick’s dating - it’s about an honest-to-goodness bear and his girlfriend. Nevertheless this is a fantasy bear in that it understands the subtleties of human behaviour and culture, knows to wear clothes and stand upright, behave in society, does DIY around the house, and even gets a fucking job where it wears a suit and consults for companies AND NO ONE BATS AN EYE ARE YOU KIDDING ME!>?
And this girl Nora is dating him because… I can only imagine that she’s mentally ill. Or, as I believe, movies like Brother Bear twisted this woman’s brain when she was a nipper!
Oh yeah - so what did I think? I liked it! Haha… oh god I’m one of them aren’t I…
It’s a very unusual love story to say the least which is part of what kept me reading as I was wondering “Where is this thing going?” but also, fair’s fair to Pamela Ribon, it’s well-written too. Nora’s a call-centre worker who hates her job and has only dated a string of losers who treated her poorly. I’m not sure that this book has any underlying message to it except maybe we should take that rarest of things - happiness - where we can find it, regardless of what other people think?
I liked that Nora was clearly longing to make a living off of her tailoring but it never became this overt goal that was artlessly mentioned throughout but something we saw in wordless panels here and there. Cat Farris’ cartoony art style suits the daffy tone well too.
I don’t know why the Bear has to hibernate in the winter given that he doesn’t behave like a normal bear so why would he need to do this specific normal bear thing (besides giving the story a contrived final act)? And the cat subplot was kinda manipulative and irrelevant.
My Boyfriend is a Bear is a very silly story but surprisingly touching and sweet too. Grah - what can I say, it won me over! Listen you, I do has a heart! It’s in a jar on one of these shelves…
Furry as can be,
Bearly even friends…
Disney has a lot to answer for. Like their monopolising of the entertainment market? Their meddling of the copyright laws to ensure Mickey Mouse never becomes public domain? Nah. I think it’s seriously screwed up an entire generation who grew up watching talking animals and that’s partly why we’ve now got this anti-meat/vegan thing going on, the plain bizarre furry scene and this book!
My Boyfriend is a Bear is not about a hairy gay guy, it’s not a metaphor for some slob this chick’s dating - it’s about an honest-to-goodness bear and his girlfriend. Nevertheless this is a fantasy bear in that it understands the subtleties of human behaviour and culture, knows to wear clothes and stand upright, behave in society, does DIY around the house, and even gets a fucking job where it wears a suit and consults for companies AND NO ONE BATS AN EYE ARE YOU KIDDING ME!>?
And this girl Nora is dating him because… I can only imagine that she’s mentally ill. Or, as I believe, movies like Brother Bear twisted this woman’s brain when she was a nipper!
Oh yeah - so what did I think? I liked it! Haha… oh god I’m one of them aren’t I…
It’s a very unusual love story to say the least which is part of what kept me reading as I was wondering “Where is this thing going?” but also, fair’s fair to Pamela Ribon, it’s well-written too. Nora’s a call-centre worker who hates her job and has only dated a string of losers who treated her poorly. I’m not sure that this book has any underlying message to it except maybe we should take that rarest of things - happiness - where we can find it, regardless of what other people think?
I liked that Nora was clearly longing to make a living off of her tailoring but it never became this overt goal that was artlessly mentioned throughout but something we saw in wordless panels here and there. Cat Farris’ cartoony art style suits the daffy tone well too.
I don’t know why the Bear has to hibernate in the winter given that he doesn’t behave like a normal bear so why would he need to do this specific normal bear thing (besides giving the story a contrived final act)? And the cat subplot was kinda manipulative and irrelevant.
My Boyfriend is a Bear is a very silly story but surprisingly touching and sweet too. Grah - what can I say, it won me over! Listen you, I do has a heart! It’s in a jar on one of these shelves…
October 31, 2021
Completely ridiculous and absolutely entertaining.
I'm not really sure how the author came up with this plot, but I'm glad she did.
I laughed...a lot.
I'm not really sure how the author came up with this plot, but I'm glad she did.
I laughed...a lot.
February 28, 2018
It's Feb month ❤️
Love is in the air;
My boyfriend is a bear
Actually, it is not taken from the book...I made it myself...
This is the most heart-touching, heart warming, the cutest romance I read ever!
The art if amazing - 5 wonderful stars...
If you haven't already, request on netgalley and read - it is sweetest little read, appropriate for this month..
Happy Valentine's Day!
Love is in the air;
My boyfriend is a bear
Actually, it is not taken from the book...I made it myself...
This is the most heart-touching, heart warming, the cutest romance I read ever!
The art if amazing - 5 wonderful stars...
If you haven't already, request on netgalley and read - it is sweetest little read, appropriate for this month..
Happy Valentine's Day!
March 15, 2022
When I heard the title, my first thought was "Whaaaaaat?" Then, "Is this about a gay couple?" Nope. Nora has dated a series of douches and decides to date an American black bear she meets in the woods while camping. She meets him again when he's digging through her garbage and is smitten. It's actually a weirdly witty, charming romance. The Bear (he never actually got a name which I thought was odd.) gets a job and hangs up shelves but still only talks in growls. Of course, there is concern from her parents and some of her friends, but Nora sticks by her bear. Then they have to deal with his hibernation come winter...
Pamela Ribon wrote Moana and Ralph Breaks the Internet so at times it can have this weird grownup Disney animation vibe to it. But then again, Ribon also wrote a documentary called Bears so maybe she just writes what she knows.
Pamela Ribon wrote Moana and Ralph Breaks the Internet so at times it can have this weird grownup Disney animation vibe to it. But then again, Ribon also wrote a documentary called Bears so maybe she just writes what she knows.
June 19, 2021
i tend to be critical of the normalization of romantic human/animal relationships in media, and possible consequential normalization of bestiality. and yet this snarky title was too intriguing for me to pass up.
however, i expected some sort of deeper metaphor here. but there's no depth. it's just a cheesy, comedic story about the taboo relationship between unlikable girl and wild bear.
and the creepy thing is that the bear isn't entirely anthropomorphized!! he doesn't speak a human language, or even have a name other than "bear." so she's basically dating a wild animal? the numerous references to their sex life are just fuckin weird and gross.
i like strange fiction but this is NOT IT.
however, i expected some sort of deeper metaphor here. but there's no depth. it's just a cheesy, comedic story about the taboo relationship between unlikable girl and wild bear.
and the creepy thing is that the bear isn't entirely anthropomorphized!! he doesn't speak a human language, or even have a name other than "bear." so she's basically dating a wild animal? the numerous references to their sex life are just fuckin weird and gross.
i like strange fiction but this is NOT IT.
January 1, 2023
The first book of 2023 and what a read lol! No, but really, this was actually really cute
I'm not sure what I was walking into based on the title of this one, but I'm always willing to try any graphic novel at least once. My Boyfriend is a Bear follows main character, Nora, who hasn't had the greatest luck in dating. Fortunately, all of that changes when she meets a bear. Nope, this isn't a metaphor for anything. Nora literally begins to date a bare. Keep in mind, the bear seems to be a tad bit more advanced and in tune with human behavior than expected, but he can't communicate outside of the typical grunts. Of course, Nora faces a lot of backlash from both her friends and family, but she wants to stick by Bear. The point at which he had to go hibernate made for an interesting conflict. Overall, this was a quick read. I enjoyed the artwork. If you're looking for something that cute, simple and cozy, I would recommend checking this one out.
I'm not sure what I was walking into based on the title of this one, but I'm always willing to try any graphic novel at least once. My Boyfriend is a Bear follows main character, Nora, who hasn't had the greatest luck in dating. Fortunately, all of that changes when she meets a bear. Nope, this isn't a metaphor for anything. Nora literally begins to date a bare. Keep in mind, the bear seems to be a tad bit more advanced and in tune with human behavior than expected, but he can't communicate outside of the typical grunts. Of course, Nora faces a lot of backlash from both her friends and family, but she wants to stick by Bear. The point at which he had to go hibernate made for an interesting conflict. Overall, this was a quick read. I enjoyed the artwork. If you're looking for something that cute, simple and cozy, I would recommend checking this one out.
April 2, 2018
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
OMG, I just HAD to have this one when I spotted it during my vacation (yes, even during my vacation I had to check NG to see if there were any new fun books). A girl who, after countless of bad romances, falls in love with a bear. Yes, a bear!
Now, I have to say I wasn't as weirded out as many probably will be. I thank manga for that. :P I have seen people date aliens, cats/dogs/cat people, so a bear? Nothing special. Though I have to say that there were parts that had me go ehhhhhhhhhh. Knowing that these two have sex. The other parts? Eh, I didn't mind those, in fact Bear and Nora are just the cutest couple!
Plus, I can totally understand that Nora may just not go for a normal guy. She has truly terribly luck with men, and I know the feeling. I am happily in a relationship now, but before this lovely guy I also had my share of not so good relationships (either they weren't good to start with or they ended not that well), and I even had a time when I thought I wouldn't ever be happy with someone.
And the Bear was just the best. Even though he couldn't speak, he was highly intelligent, he seemed to understand English (though couldn't speak it), he eventually even got a job (which is totally amazing if you think about it). I can totally understand that Nora fully falls for the guy. He is there when she needs it, he comforts her when she has a shitty day, he is a great cuddler. He can fix things around the house. He and the cat are compatible too and they help out each other.
The only thing Bear can do better is not breaking everything left and right. But I am sure that he is trying his best to throw his hugeness not around like crazy.
I loved how Nora kept protecting and trying to argue against anyone who was trying to get her and Bear to break up. And there were a lot of people who were against her dating Bear. Not only one of her friends (the other was totally OK with Bear, even to the point I was worried that she would take Bear from Nora), but also the parents (though then again I am sure they acted this way with all her boyfriends), people at work, people on the street. But Nora wasn't deterred and she kept loving Bear more and more with each day.
The hibernation parts just broke my heart. It didn't help I had some sad Nightcore-ish music up, so I was on the border of crying. Poor Nora, but also poor Bear. He can't help his instincts, but I am sure he wishes he could just stay with Nora for all the time and not just half of the year.
I also wanted Bear to be awake and just swing Ben around a few times. Really, dude, she broke up with you. Don't TOUCH her, don't tell her you are not giving her up, don't come uninvited to her home. Just no. Ewww.
The ending to the hibernation, and the ending to the book, I was just crying. It was perfection. I am so happy for both Bear and Nora. I hope they will be together for a long time to come, and hopefully they can work with the hibernation.
The art was absolutely fabulous. The style was just perfect for this story. A perfect blend of seriousness/love/comedy.
All in all, a book I would highly recommend. It is a cute romance between a girl and her sweet Bear. You will be rooting for the two of them.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
OMG, I just HAD to have this one when I spotted it during my vacation (yes, even during my vacation I had to check NG to see if there were any new fun books). A girl who, after countless of bad romances, falls in love with a bear. Yes, a bear!
Now, I have to say I wasn't as weirded out as many probably will be. I thank manga for that. :P I have seen people date aliens, cats/dogs/cat people, so a bear? Nothing special. Though I have to say that there were parts that had me go ehhhhhhhhhh. Knowing that these two have sex. The other parts? Eh, I didn't mind those, in fact Bear and Nora are just the cutest couple!
Plus, I can totally understand that Nora may just not go for a normal guy. She has truly terribly luck with men, and I know the feeling. I am happily in a relationship now, but before this lovely guy I also had my share of not so good relationships (either they weren't good to start with or they ended not that well), and I even had a time when I thought I wouldn't ever be happy with someone.
And the Bear was just the best. Even though he couldn't speak, he was highly intelligent, he seemed to understand English (though couldn't speak it), he eventually even got a job (which is totally amazing if you think about it). I can totally understand that Nora fully falls for the guy. He is there when she needs it, he comforts her when she has a shitty day, he is a great cuddler. He can fix things around the house. He and the cat are compatible too and they help out each other.
The only thing Bear can do better is not breaking everything left and right. But I am sure that he is trying his best to throw his hugeness not around like crazy.
I loved how Nora kept protecting and trying to argue against anyone who was trying to get her and Bear to break up. And there were a lot of people who were against her dating Bear. Not only one of her friends (the other was totally OK with Bear, even to the point I was worried that she would take Bear from Nora), but also the parents (though then again I am sure they acted this way with all her boyfriends), people at work, people on the street. But Nora wasn't deterred and she kept loving Bear more and more with each day.
The hibernation parts just broke my heart. It didn't help I had some sad Nightcore-ish music up, so I was on the border of crying. Poor Nora, but also poor Bear. He can't help his instincts, but I am sure he wishes he could just stay with Nora for all the time and not just half of the year.
I also wanted Bear to be awake and just swing Ben around a few times. Really, dude, she broke up with you. Don't TOUCH her, don't tell her you are not giving her up, don't come uninvited to her home. Just no. Ewww.
The ending to the hibernation, and the ending to the book, I was just crying. It was perfection. I am so happy for both Bear and Nora. I hope they will be together for a long time to come, and hopefully they can work with the hibernation.
The art was absolutely fabulous. The style was just perfect for this story. A perfect blend of seriousness/love/comedy.
All in all, a book I would highly recommend. It is a cute romance between a girl and her sweet Bear. You will be rooting for the two of them.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
June 4, 2018
This was an adorable graphic novel! I bought it on a whim, then took it along on a road trip - it had me laughing the entire time. Who knew a relationship between a girl and an actual bear could be so sweet? Highly recommended. I hope there will be more.
August 4, 2022
A girl is disappointed by men and falls in love with a bear - a literal freaking bear.
That's it. That's the story.
It was... weird, I think? Can't exactly find the words for what I just read.
Well, one: GRAHH!
STYLING: ⭐⭐
ORIGINALITY: ⭐⭐⭐
CHARACTER DEV.: ⭐⭐
PLOT DEV.: ⭐⭐
IMPORTANCE: ⭐⭐
That's it. That's the story.
It was... weird, I think? Can't exactly find the words for what I just read.
Well, one: GRAHH!
STYLING: ⭐⭐
ORIGINALITY: ⭐⭐⭐
CHARACTER DEV.: ⭐⭐
PLOT DEV.: ⭐⭐
IMPORTANCE: ⭐⭐
April 21, 2018
So when this first caught my attention I prepared myself for a deep, possibly more than a little sexually creepy, social commentary on...I don't know...something about not judging people based on appearance? The dangers of labeling and projecting our own preconceived notions of what happiness really means or what defines a successful relationship? I mean this couldn't literally be a book about a woman who meets, falls in love with and has a sweet, deeply loving relationship with a bear right?
Turns out it can in fact be a book about a woman who meets, falls in love with and has a sweet, deeply loving relationship with a bear.
I readily admit that I spent a little time waiting for the other shoe to drop. Like a weird bear sex scene or something. But it never happens. Somehow Pamela Ribon and Cat Farris have produced a delightful, bittersweet romantic fable that just happens to feature a young woman named Nora falling for a bear rather than a person and it just works. There's practically no differences at all between this relationship and any other barring obvious things like the bear causing pandemonium if they try to go hiking or camping and the bear's tendency to scratch the shit out of Nora's furniture and walls.
Nora and the bear go through all the typical ups and downs of a relationship. Meeting the parents (dad is impressed with the bear's handiness around the house mom doubts they'll make it long term), and the friends (one of Nora's besties thinks the bear is awesome while the other expresses loud and increasingly angry concerns that the bear (being a bear) will ultimately only hurt Nora, and Nora's inability to remember to fold and store the bears artisanal coffee correctly.
But when hibernation season appears on the horizon Nora and the bear will have to decide if they can go the distance or surrender their love to the will of nature.
Seriously I just loved this. Its adorable, witty and very funny and it has an incredible, honest heart. I didn't spend one second questioning a reality where a young woman could love a bear I just sat there rooting for them to overcome their differences and survive a winter apart. I mean the bear is the perfect goddamn boyfriend. He casts no judgments (okay he doesn't like when Nora eats potato chips), he values her thoughts, he sits through episodes of Downton Abbey, he wears the clothes she designs for him and finds a job because it makes her happy and he lets her be herself entirely, totally embracing the ugly with the beautiful. How do you NOT fall in love with that?
The art work is fabulous. Everything is bright and cartoony and fun. There's something wonderful about the way this world is populated by a super annoying crowd of hipster guys with dumb mustaches and suspenders and then this fantastic, enormous, sort of doofy looking, giant frickin' bear just drops in and he's so honest looking and sweet and yeah kind of handsome. That's right I said it! The bear is kind of hot.
I loved the page that breaks down the bears communication style (variations on "GRRAAHHH"). There's an especially wonderful sequence where Nora is drinking with her friends and as the evening (and the martinis) wear on everyone starts to look gradually more and more like a nightmarish Picasso painting. When the bear goes off to hibernate the action is split between the bright vibrant panels of Nora's life alone with tinier, water colored panels depicting the bear in various states of slumber.
This was wonderful and surprisingly deep and romantic. I simply, totally loved it.
Turns out it can in fact be a book about a woman who meets, falls in love with and has a sweet, deeply loving relationship with a bear.
I readily admit that I spent a little time waiting for the other shoe to drop. Like a weird bear sex scene or something. But it never happens. Somehow Pamela Ribon and Cat Farris have produced a delightful, bittersweet romantic fable that just happens to feature a young woman named Nora falling for a bear rather than a person and it just works. There's practically no differences at all between this relationship and any other barring obvious things like the bear causing pandemonium if they try to go hiking or camping and the bear's tendency to scratch the shit out of Nora's furniture and walls.
Nora and the bear go through all the typical ups and downs of a relationship. Meeting the parents (dad is impressed with the bear's handiness around the house mom doubts they'll make it long term), and the friends (one of Nora's besties thinks the bear is awesome while the other expresses loud and increasingly angry concerns that the bear (being a bear) will ultimately only hurt Nora, and Nora's inability to remember to fold and store the bears artisanal coffee correctly.
But when hibernation season appears on the horizon Nora and the bear will have to decide if they can go the distance or surrender their love to the will of nature.
Seriously I just loved this. Its adorable, witty and very funny and it has an incredible, honest heart. I didn't spend one second questioning a reality where a young woman could love a bear I just sat there rooting for them to overcome their differences and survive a winter apart. I mean the bear is the perfect goddamn boyfriend. He casts no judgments (okay he doesn't like when Nora eats potato chips), he values her thoughts, he sits through episodes of Downton Abbey, he wears the clothes she designs for him and finds a job because it makes her happy and he lets her be herself entirely, totally embracing the ugly with the beautiful. How do you NOT fall in love with that?
The art work is fabulous. Everything is bright and cartoony and fun. There's something wonderful about the way this world is populated by a super annoying crowd of hipster guys with dumb mustaches and suspenders and then this fantastic, enormous, sort of doofy looking, giant frickin' bear just drops in and he's so honest looking and sweet and yeah kind of handsome. That's right I said it! The bear is kind of hot.
I loved the page that breaks down the bears communication style (variations on "GRRAAHHH"). There's an especially wonderful sequence where Nora is drinking with her friends and as the evening (and the martinis) wear on everyone starts to look gradually more and more like a nightmarish Picasso painting. When the bear goes off to hibernate the action is split between the bright vibrant panels of Nora's life alone with tinier, water colored panels depicting the bear in various states of slumber.
This was wonderful and surprisingly deep and romantic. I simply, totally loved it.
June 20, 2018
No one told me this was gonna be so SAD!!! wtf??
The title is not a metaphor – be prepared to get a sudden desire for camping where you just might meet your special someone roaming the forest. This was cute and sweet and definitely has some great artwork.
The title is not a metaphor – be prepared to get a sudden desire for camping where you just might meet your special someone roaming the forest. This was cute and sweet and definitely has some great artwork.
February 6, 2020
My Boyfriend is a Bear is about a young woman who is dating a bear. A literal, American Black Bear straight from the forest.
He’s 100% a bear. He’s not a man-like personification of a bear. He doesn’t speak, he has big paws with claws, he eats a ton (including garbage), and he hibernates.
The hibernating thing becomes a pretty big issue.
It starts with the girl going on a camping trip with her total douche-bag boyfriend where she first sees the bear, then he finds her again later and they somehow hit it off. Possibly because she was drunk enough not to be scared out of her mind.
She falls in love with this bear pretty quickly despite their many many differences and all the red flags that come with dating something of another species.
among other problems
And since I know you’re wondering, it does appear that they do have sex. Based off two jokes, one about breaking the bed and the other about mating season. How they do this is not shown, guess it’s left to your imagination. Which is definitely preferable in this case, I don’t need to see that drawn in detail.
They end up forced to take a break from their relationship since the bear needs to go hibernate. This is when the metaphor of the story really comes through.
The couple was having some issues pre-hibernation but didn’t necessarily want to break up. Despite what some friends and family members thought to be best.
After having an extended break to focus on their own needs they come back to each other refreshed and with a better understanding of how to be in a relationship with someone without losing yourself.
You can never allow a relationship to take over every aspect of your life. To change who you fundamentally are as a person, or a bear. It’s healthy to take some time apart and put in effort on things that will help you grow.
My Boyfriend is a Bear is basically a story about a very basic relationship, it just happens to involve a huge cuddly bear. I’m still not convinced that this bear is the best partner for our young heroine but she does seem happy and it’s her choice to make.
It’s a relatable story, especially for those of us who went through that dating someone not quite right for us phase. Or maybe you found your ideal match in an unlikely place.
But seriously, in real life, please don’t date outside of your own species.
He’s 100% a bear. He’s not a man-like personification of a bear. He doesn’t speak, he has big paws with claws, he eats a ton (including garbage), and he hibernates.
The hibernating thing becomes a pretty big issue.
It starts with the girl going on a camping trip with her total douche-bag boyfriend where she first sees the bear, then he finds her again later and they somehow hit it off. Possibly because she was drunk enough not to be scared out of her mind.
She falls in love with this bear pretty quickly despite their many many differences and all the red flags that come with dating something of another species.
among other problems
And since I know you’re wondering, it does appear that they do have sex. Based off two jokes, one about breaking the bed and the other about mating season. How they do this is not shown, guess it’s left to your imagination. Which is definitely preferable in this case, I don’t need to see that drawn in detail.
They end up forced to take a break from their relationship since the bear needs to go hibernate. This is when the metaphor of the story really comes through.
The couple was having some issues pre-hibernation but didn’t necessarily want to break up. Despite what some friends and family members thought to be best.
After having an extended break to focus on their own needs they come back to each other refreshed and with a better understanding of how to be in a relationship with someone without losing yourself.
You can never allow a relationship to take over every aspect of your life. To change who you fundamentally are as a person, or a bear. It’s healthy to take some time apart and put in effort on things that will help you grow.
My Boyfriend is a Bear is basically a story about a very basic relationship, it just happens to involve a huge cuddly bear. I’m still not convinced that this bear is the best partner for our young heroine but she does seem happy and it’s her choice to make.
It’s a relatable story, especially for those of us who went through that dating someone not quite right for us phase. Or maybe you found your ideal match in an unlikely place.
But seriously, in real life, please don’t date outside of your own species.
July 16, 2018
2.5 stars
This was...so odd. Obviously by the title you can tell that it's going to be an eccentric tale, but I wasn't aware there were going to be actual hints of sex between Nora & Bear. Thankfully it's not on the pages, but it's there in context which just really bothered me. I thought it was going to stay platonic, but I guess not. Took a star off for that because it wasn't necessary to the plot & it's not the type of type of humor I'm into, sorry. Not.
Otherwise this was flowing smoothly. You have to be willing to suspend disbelief to fully immerse yourself into the story- we see Bear drinking beer, building shelves for Nora's cat, going to work, watching TV, cuddling...it was interesting to witness the dynamic between them. It's predictable & cheesy but it's sweet to see Bear doing all these things for Nora- to the extent I wish the author would have kept a strict boundary of. It becomes sad in the second chunk, but like many predictable romances, it has a happy ending.
I neither hated nor loved this, it was just okay. I would have liked it a lot more if the creepiness factor was toned down. The artwork by Farris compliments the storyline nicely. I don't regret reading this, but I wouldn't go out of my way to recommend it.
This was...so odd. Obviously by the title you can tell that it's going to be an eccentric tale, but I wasn't aware there were going to be actual hints of sex between Nora & Bear. Thankfully it's not on the pages, but it's there in context which just really bothered me. I thought it was going to stay platonic, but I guess not. Took a star off for that because it wasn't necessary to the plot & it's not the type of type of humor I'm into, sorry. Not.
Otherwise this was flowing smoothly. You have to be willing to suspend disbelief to fully immerse yourself into the story- we see Bear drinking beer, building shelves for Nora's cat, going to work, watching TV, cuddling...it was interesting to witness the dynamic between them. It's predictable & cheesy but it's sweet to see Bear doing all these things for Nora- to the extent I wish the author would have kept a strict boundary of. It becomes sad in the second chunk, but like many predictable romances, it has a happy ending.
I neither hated nor loved this, it was just okay. I would have liked it a lot more if the creepiness factor was toned down. The artwork by Farris compliments the storyline nicely. I don't regret reading this, but I wouldn't go out of my way to recommend it.
November 13, 2022
Sometimes a love story is just a love story...
Pamela Ribon and Cat Farris and Saida Temofinte have inked out a wonderfully weird, surprisingly warm fairy tale that speaks to those of us who know that conformity and real happiness are seldom seen in the same vicinity.
Speaking from a bear's perspective, I loved this. I loved that he loved her cat. I loved that he tried to watch Project Runway. I loved that when they were together they both got fatter. I loved that some (most) of her friends didn't get it and she was okay with that.
This is the perfect marriage of form and substance, of fantastic artwork and skillful literary arc - and the whole is even greater than the sum of its parts. Five stars.
Pamela Ribon and Cat Farris and Saida Temofinte have inked out a wonderfully weird, surprisingly warm fairy tale that speaks to those of us who know that conformity and real happiness are seldom seen in the same vicinity.
Speaking from a bear's perspective, I loved this. I loved that he loved her cat. I loved that he tried to watch Project Runway. I loved that when they were together they both got fatter. I loved that some (most) of her friends didn't get it and she was okay with that.
This is the perfect marriage of form and substance, of fantastic artwork and skillful literary arc - and the whole is even greater than the sum of its parts. Five stars.
September 24, 2020
This was weird... I was expecting the bear to be a metaphor, but nope. This was a story about a woman dating an actual bear... and the “mating season” reference was super awkward.
September 8, 2018
Oddly enough adorable.
July 31, 2020
5 Stars
Oh, my heart. This was the sweetest little story I never knew my heart needed.
Quirky, charming, a bit heart-wrenching, and extremely lovable; this graphic novel was a delightful treat.
I am crap at writing reviews, and it irks me that I can't do justice to this unique and special story. It can be read on many different levels: a gently absurdest social commentary about love, dating, friendship, work-life, and family. It can also just be a magical modern fairy tale.
For me, it was an emotionally laden tale of true love. The story showed me that relationships take work; a loving relationship requires understanding, kindness, and compromise; and, everything is better if it includes a cat.
This review by namericanwordcat is the review I wish I could have written for this story. So read this other review and give this unique story a chance.
It made me laugh, get teary-eyed, and smile. That, to me, makes this the perfect comfort read.
Recommend!
Oh, my heart. This was the sweetest little story I never knew my heart needed.
Quirky, charming, a bit heart-wrenching, and extremely lovable; this graphic novel was a delightful treat.
I am crap at writing reviews, and it irks me that I can't do justice to this unique and special story. It can be read on many different levels: a gently absurdest social commentary about love, dating, friendship, work-life, and family. It can also just be a magical modern fairy tale.
For me, it was an emotionally laden tale of true love. The story showed me that relationships take work; a loving relationship requires understanding, kindness, and compromise; and, everything is better if it includes a cat.
This review by namericanwordcat is the review I wish I could have written for this story. So read this other review and give this unique story a chance.
It made me laugh, get teary-eyed, and smile. That, to me, makes this the perfect comfort read.
Recommend!
August 8, 2018
This was a weirdly entertaining read. The animation was great, and the story for the oddest or reasons kept me engaged. I honestly wasn’t sure if I would like it, but... it was... weirdly. entertaining.
August 25, 2018
I guess I am Debra
January 12, 2019
This is a very quick read, but I disliked it enough that I considered not finishing it. I went into this book fully expecting it to be strange (I mean, based on the title alone), but I was prepared to laugh incredulously and find sweet tidbits. At the very least, I didn't think I would come away with such a definitively negative experience.
The illustrations were cute, and there were a few nice moments. But I was put off by both the characters and plot. I did not like Nora. I did not like Ben (I know we're supposed to dislike him, but still, fuck Ben). I did not like
I think what bothers me the most is that I could have had a lot of fun with the premise, had it been handled differently. Maybe I set myself up for disappointment by thinking this was something it wasn't. That could be. But I'm still mad.
The illustrations were cute, and there were a few nice moments. But I was put off by both the characters and plot. I did not like Nora. I did not like Ben (I know we're supposed to dislike him, but still, fuck Ben). I did not like
I think what bothers me the most is that I could have had a lot of fun with the premise, had it been handled differently. Maybe I set myself up for disappointment by thinking this was something it wasn't. That could be. But I'm still mad.
October 26, 2019
Want to see more bookish things from me? Check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfer...
3.5/5 Stars
This is literally about a girl...who dates a bear... Honestly I thought it was going to be a metaphor for dating but no... its just a girl dating a bear. I mean, it was cute... but also, weird... but cute. I am very confused. I really liked the art work and colours though.
3.5/5 Stars
This is literally about a girl...who dates a bear... Honestly I thought it was going to be a metaphor for dating but no... its just a girl dating a bear. I mean, it was cute... but also, weird... but cute. I am very confused. I really liked the art work and colours though.
August 3, 2019
Es muy cuqui. Me ha recordado a Mi novio caballo de Xiomara Correa en el planteamiento, aunque aquí el oso no habla y desde luego tiene un tono mucho más suave (que el otro es una gamberrada divertidisima). Se lee de una sentada, muy simpático y recomendable. Queremos un oso!
June 24, 2020
There's no hidden meaning or, or metaphor, this is straight up a girl dating a bear.
And somehow it works?
This girl has been through the ringer. Boyfriend after boyfriend, all disappointing. Some too needed, some whining, some asshole, some even spit on her vagina (her words not mine) and it's just all no-no. She's about to give it all up when she meets bear!
Now bear at first scares her off because he's a big black fucking bear, and it would scare anyone off. But he tracks her down and one night when she's drunk she lets him in and they cuddle and then begin to date. The story basically balances comedy and romance with one of the most outrageous yet charming plots I've seen.
It helps the main character is super relatable and funny. It also helps she has a job in a call center, which I can relate too 100%. Makes for some laugh out loud moments. On top of that the chemistry between Bear and her, despite him never speaking, is cute and funny. Her friends also add some great levity moments.
The romance can only go one way. I really enjoyed most of it, and even though the ending is a little too typical, it still works. Not a mind blowing book or anything but super cute and charming. A 4 out of 5.
And somehow it works?
This girl has been through the ringer. Boyfriend after boyfriend, all disappointing. Some too needed, some whining, some asshole, some even spit on her vagina (her words not mine) and it's just all no-no. She's about to give it all up when she meets bear!
Now bear at first scares her off because he's a big black fucking bear, and it would scare anyone off. But he tracks her down and one night when she's drunk she lets him in and they cuddle and then begin to date. The story basically balances comedy and romance with one of the most outrageous yet charming plots I've seen.
It helps the main character is super relatable and funny. It also helps she has a job in a call center, which I can relate too 100%. Makes for some laugh out loud moments. On top of that the chemistry between Bear and her, despite him never speaking, is cute and funny. Her friends also add some great levity moments.
The romance can only go one way. I really enjoyed most of it, and even though the ending is a little too typical, it still works. Not a mind blowing book or anything but super cute and charming. A 4 out of 5.
May 5, 2018
So I am very confused about what I just read. I thought that this was going to be a story about a girl dating a bear in jest to make fun of her dating experience. It was not, she really dates this bear and falls in love with said bear. The story started out fun and I laughed but by the end I wasn't sure what I had just read? Was this a metaphor? Did I miss it? or was this pro bestiality? (not cool) So idk I gave it 3 stars because the art work was good and the story was funny but I am just not sure what i just read........
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