True Stories of Bear Attacks: Who Survived and Why

by Mike Lapinski

Author and wildlife expert Mike Lapinski compiled this collection of true bear-encounter stories from throughout the western United States, British Columbia, and Alaska. Some have happy endings, some fatal; all are thrilling. But there's more to this book than a heart-pounding read. Think of these as campfire stories with a higher purpose. Mike strongly advocates the use of bear pepper spray for backpackers, rangers, anglers, hunters, photographers, anybody who hikes through bear country. Repelling and reconditioning bears saves lives, both human and bruin, he asserts. In TRUE STORIES OF BEAR ATTACKS. Mike also shares insights into bear behavior, why they attack, how to protect yourself in bear country, and thoughts on the future of the great bear in the Lower 48. Organizations such as the U.S.D.A. Forest Service and the Center for Wildlife Information, National Bear Conservation, in Missoula, Montana, have expressed support for Mike's work.

224 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2004

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the most talented writer in the world but a good read about the details of various bear attacks and what did and didn't work for the people in trying to survive. REALLY emphasizes the important of bear spray which I really appreciate. I've come face to face with a bear in the woods in Alaska and didn't need to spray, but having it made me feel much more confident about the situation. I was very pleased to see such an emphasis on it here - really this book could be titled "Why You Really Need Bear Spray."

[Tony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good information for anyone who enjoys time in the woods where bears might hang out. Their bottom line: Always carry EPA approved bear spray when in the woods.

[Bill · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of books will tell you about bear attacks. Some might even tell you who survived. This book, however, tells you all of that, plus, why they survived. That's why it's the bear attack book for me. That, and it comes highly recommended.

I'm giving this book 5 stars based only on the title (awesome), subtitle (awesomer), and cover picture (awesomest). Once I finish reading the book, I'll report back to see if it lived up to the 5 star hype.

UPDATE: OK, this book did not quite deliver in the "writing quality" category. However, the bear stories were awesome and I am now convinced that I need to get some EPA approved bear pepper spray (note: the book is kinda one big ad for bear pepper spray, but that really doesn't take away from the book as much as you would think).

SPOILER ALERT: Sweet little chocolate legs, the bear that a children's story was based upon, was also a remorseless man-eating beast.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

My dad thought it would be funny to give me this book for Christmas because I always run with bear spray up in the northwoods. (There are quite a few black bears in northern Wisconsin.) I now have a lot more to think about on those long runs ... thanks, Dad!

[Rich Draves · Rating 3 out of 5]

Turns out the author has an agenda: he is pushing bear spray. But the book is interesting and he makes a good case.

[Dawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you don't want to hold your face onto your skull as you seek help, use bear spray.