BEAR BOY

Barker’s debut memoir showcases a teenager’s personal growth as he strives to help zoo animals.

In 1995, the author was a lonely 13-year-old boy living in Sacramento who filled his days by struggling through school and watching kids’ TV shows, until he read the book Kids Can Save the Animals: 101 Easy Things To Do, which gave him inspiration. He quickly connected with local and national animal rights organizations and set himself a goal to improve conditions at the Sacramento Zoo. Soon, Barker gained media attention and brought about positive changes for polar bears, hyenas, and other animals in small cages. After someone sent him an anonymous letter, he decided to pursue a new project to save two black bears in Roseville, California, from appalling living conditions at an underserved facility. After making hundreds of phone calls, writing letters, and appearing on the local news, the author finally found a place to house the bears at a rescue zoo. However, he needed to raise $250,000 to build a new structure for the animals. Barker diligently worked every angle, from local fundraising to appearing on the NBC TV show Real Life. His message inspired many, bringing awareness to animal welfare. As he discovers his purpose, he also discovers his identity as a queer teen. Over the course of this book, which features a foreword by Jane Goodall, Barker’s casual writing style establishes an easy flow to a narrative that spans years; along the way, it presents detailed snapshots of specific animals’ plights and moments in the author’s personal life, resulting in an unpredictable and original work. Teen readers will be able to relate to Justin’s challenging relationship with his parents, his personal angst, and his determination to find himself. That said, the 1990s pop-culture references to old Nickelodeon programs or the Spice Girls may not resonate with younger readers.

An unconventional remembrance that will encourage readers to try to create change themselves.