When danger can appear in the most unexpected places, the question of where and how we find safety becomes deeply personal, touching on our fears, strengths, and shared experiences. We Choose The Bear, a new anthology I have co-written with Kim Larkin, invites readers to explore these themes through a powerful collection of stories, essays, poems, and artworks that challenge traditional ideas about power and protection.
At first glance, the title may evoke images of wild, untamed nature—perhaps a fierce bear stalking through the forest. But this anthology flips the script, using the bear as a symbol of safety rather than fear. The inspiration behind the book is rooted in a provocative and poignant question: Why do many women and marginalized individuals feel safer encountering a bear in the woods than a man? This question isn’t just rhetorical; it’s a lens through which the authors examine the complex dynamics of violence, trust, and survival.
We Choose The Bear was created during significant celestial events in 2024, a year marked by both cosmic and cultural shifts. The anthology captures this moment in time, weaving together personal narratives, mythological themes, and cultural insights to form a rich tapestry of experiences. Each piece in the collection adds a unique thread, offering readers a diverse array of perspectives on what it means to find strength in vulnerability, to reclaim power in the face of oppression, and to redefine safety on one’s own terms.
The bear, traditionally seen as a symbol of raw, untamed power, becomes in this anthology a protector. The contributors explore this symbolism through various lenses—some stories draw from ancient myths, where bears were revered as sacred protectors; others offer contemporary narratives that reflect the lived experiences of women today, navigating a world that can often feel hostile and unpredictable.
But We Choose The Bear is more than just a collection of stories; it’s a call to action. The anthology doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of violence and fear, but it also doesn’t leave the reader in despair. Instead, it offers a path forward, one that is rooted in solidarity, resilience, and the power of reclaiming one’s own narrative. It’s a book that speaks to the heart of what it means to be human—vulnerable yet strong, fearful yet courageous.
As you turn the pages of We Choose The Bear, you’ll find yourself drawn into a world where the boundaries between myth and reality blur, where the woods offers not just danger, but also refuge. The stories and essays will challenge you to think differently about power and protection, while the poems and artworks will leave a lasting impression, inviting you to reflect on your own experiences and beliefs.
Whether you are a seasoned reader of feminist literature, someone seeking to understand the complexities of violence and safety, a fan of art or simply a lover of thought-provoking stories, We Choose The Bear has something to offer. It’s a book that stays with you, sparking conversations and inspiring action long after you’ve finished reading.
In the end, We Choose The Bear asks us all to consider where we find our strength and how we can create a safer, more equitable world. It’s a question that resonates deeply in today’s society, and one that this anthology answers with both honesty and hope.
We Choose The Bear is available now online. Don’t miss your chance to experience this powerful and timely collection. Read it, share it, and join the conversation.
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