Review by Booklist Review
Nora has terrible luck with guys. But her love life turns around when she meets a bear while hiking, and he follows her home to Los Angeles. No, he's not the perfect partner he eats too much, scares people, is a bear but he's good to her, and Nora thinks her love life might be turning around. But what will happen when it's hibernation season? What starts out as an odd and possibly off-putting premise soon grips readers with true emotion, thanks to skilled writing and artwork. Nora's main problem is a lack of trust in herself, and Ribon makes this a relatable, sympathetic trait. Readers will root for Nora to discover who she really is and what she wants out of life. Her journey is deftly illustrated by Farris, who plays with panels, sound effects, and perspective to perfectly convey both humor and drama, which are brought to life in her lively, warm colors. Full of heart, this mature story is an excellent pick for adult comics and romance fans.--Wildsmith, Snow Copyright 2018 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Ribon (Slam!) and Farris (Emily and the Strangers) collaborate to deliver a winning slice-of-life romantic comedy with a twist. After dumping her latest terrible boyfriend, 28-year-old Nora unexpectedly falls in love with an American black bear she meets in the woods. "The bear" is no ordinary wild animal: he's kind, wears a hip Arcade Fire T-shirt, and has a great fondness for juggling, cuddling, and craft beer. The two enjoy a nearly idyllic life together, despite objections from Nora's family and friends, but when their honeymoon phase passes, Nora's life falls apart all over again-before winter sets in, the bear must abandon her to hibernate in the mountains. Ribon's use of magical realism is a delight from cover to cover, as she cleverly navigates the foibles of millennial dating and friendships. Farris's cartooning is as expressive as it is adorable, inviting the reader to share Nora and the bear's intimacy with every panel. This resonant, absurdist modern fable is a joyful discovery. (Apr.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by Library Journal Review
Twentysomething Nora bounces numerous suitors for oddball flaws (like wearing suspenders), but when she drunkenly invites a hungry black bear in to raid the refrigerator, it's mutual fireworks-and suddenly flaws dwindle to mere challenges. Surprisingly considerate and tender, Bear learns to wear clothes and builds shelves for the cat. Nora adapts to his appetite and messiness and sticks up for him when friends protest. We could take this as a parable about what folks do for amour (chemistry always wins out) and that anyone's knotty courtship problems can be handled. But mostly it's just good fun with nothing icky or salacious. Ribon boasts numerous writing credits at Disney, including serving as a consultant on DisneyNature's Bears. Farris (Emily and the Strangers) works the rom-com formula to the hilt in a colorful cartoony style, using chibi figures occasionally for extreme emotions. VERDICT A sort of alt-Disney meets Jane Austen, this delightful confection showcases an unconventional relationship that will pull giggles and snuffles from romance lovers.-MC © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
