A review by erickabdz
Bear, Otter, and the Kid by TJ Klune

emotional funny hopeful sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 
"The fight for you was all I've ever known."


I'm sobbing this was so raw and pure and beautiful and I have so much to say about it but I'm still crying. Bear, Otter, and the Kid made me laugh and cry so many times I can't really count. The book just felt... so... authentic. The feelings, both good and bad, were so real and went straight to my heart and I felt moved to tears more often than not.

Go ahead and ask him. Maybe he'll save you from drowning.


Bear is one of the protagonists I have liked the most in my life. He was relatable, his thoughts messy and not always something to be proud of. I just... love so much protagonist that are not good and kind and have a hard time being these things.

I don't have anything else to give you, so you give me something back for once!


The dialogues were also something that felt authentic; not too elaborate but raw with feeling. But I do think that what shines the most in this book are the relationships between characters; between Bear and Otter and the Kid, yes, especially, because it's the most bright and heartbreaking thing there is, but also the ones with Creed and Anna and the parents. Complicated, beautiful relationships that really exemplify how a family is not always defined by blood.

The only thing I slightly disliked was the big dramatic plot twist by the end, there was still much more to love and that's why I can't bring myself to lower the rating. This is one of the most beautiful, most real books I have ever read and T.J. Klune has shares of my soul now. 

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