NEW NOVEL EXPLORES THE REALITIES OF BEING A BEAR…AND CHASERS

The key to authenticity in art is to have someone of a certain lived experience tell their own story and that is just what Norman DaBear is doing in his new gay romance novel Can We Bear to Love Across the Pacific. It is a book about a bear and chaser by a bear who loves chasers! We sat down with Norman to learn a bit more about the novel and what inspired him to write it.

BWM: Tell us why you chose to write this book about bears and admirers.

Norman DaBear (ND): I identify as a bear, and as such, I am very disappointed that there is a lack of stories representing us – the narratives that reflect our lives seem non–existent. Every day we face unique challenges—whether it’s navigating love in a world obsessed with “perfect” bodies or finding a community that truly celebrates us. I wanted to write a story where bears, chasers, and everyone in between can see themselves, not just as side characters, but as the heroes of a love story. *Can We Bear to Love Across the Pacific* is about love, but it’s also about validation—showing the world that we are sexy, lovable, and worthy of being celebrated.

BWM: Tell us a little about the plot. There seems to be a long-distance romance in the mix. What inspired that choice?

ND: *Can We Bear to Love Across the Pacific* is much more than a long-distance love story. Yes, it’s about Jacob, a Canadian bear, and Ivan, a Filipino chaser, finding love across cultures and oceans, but it’s also about the unique challenges bears face in a world that doesn’t always celebrate us.

Through Jacob’s journey, I wanted to shine a light on the everyday struggles that many of us know all too well. There’s the frustration of sitting in a doctor’s office only to have every problem blamed on your weight, the anxiety of wondering if a seatbelt on an airplane will fit, or the fear that a chair might not hold you. These are real, shared experiences in our community—ones that often make us feel less-than. But by weaving these stories into a romance, I hope to show that we’re never alone in facing them.

What makes this story so special is that Jacob—the bear, the chubby guy—is the hero. He’s the hot guy, the one everyone wants. It’s the kind of world we all dream of living in, where we’re not just seen, but celebrated, loved, and lusted after. For once, the bear gets to be number one, and it’s a powerful, validating experience to see ourselves in that role.

Jacob and Ivan’s relationship isn’t just about overcoming distance; it’s about overcoming the critics who say their love isn’t valid, who judge them for their bodies or their choices. And yet, through it all, their love grows stronger.

This story is for bears, chasers, chubs, and cubs, but also for those outside our community who want to better understand us. It offers a window into our lives, our challenges, and the joy that makes it all worthwhile.

BWM: What has your experience been within the bear community and with chasers specifically?

ND: When I first joined the bear community, I was struck by how chasers weren’t always welcomed, and some were even outright shunned. It was difficult to see people who were so clearly drawn to us—and who celebrated us for exactly who we are—not be welcomed. For some bears, there was this idea that chasers represented something we didn’t value: a preference for smaller, more “idealized” bodies.

But I’ve always believed that many chasers love us for us. They celebrate and lust after us in ways the broader world rarely does, and that’s something I’ve always valued.

I’m so happy for bears who love other bears. Plus, the added benefit is that it leaves more chasers for me! There’s a beautiful and powerful connection in relationships between bears, and that’s something that makes me truly happy.

In the end, there’s room in this community for all of us—bears, chasers, chubs, super chubs, cubs, and everyone in between. What binds us is our shared experience, our pride, and the way we show up for each other in love and life.

BWM: Where do you fall on the chaser vs admirer terminology debate and why?

ND: This is such an interesting topic, and I think it really comes down to personal preference. For me, “chaser” carries a kind of energy—like they’re actively seeking and celebrating us—which I think is beautiful when it comes from a place of respect. But I know some bears feel it can sound objectifying, which is why “admirer” has its own appeal. Ultimately, I think the labels are less important than the love, respect, and equality within the relationship. Most importantly, I believe it’s up to each of us to decide what feels comfortable and respect others’ choices.

BWM: This is book one of a series and you are inviting readers to submit their ideas. Tell us about that choice.

ND: This trilogy is my love letter to the bear community, but I want it to be *our* story, not just mine. By inviting readers to share their ideas, I hope to capture the incredible diversity of experiences in our community—stories of love, lust, heartbreak, and triumph that are waiting to be told. I want bears and chasers to feel seen, celebrated, and part of something bigger. Who knows? Your idea might inspire the next big moment in Jacob and Ivan’s journey.

If you have ideas for books two, three, or even ten, please share them here. Additionally, if you’re interested in being a beta reader for book two, send me a message through the website. I would be grateful, and you’ll get a firsthand view of what’s coming next.

BWM: Will there be other series based on additional characters?

ND: Absolutely. While this trilogy focuses on Jacob and Ivan, the world of *Bearing Our Love* is full of characters whose stories are just waiting to be told. There’s the older bear finding love again after loss, the chaser navigating life in a community that doesn’t always welcome him, and the cub stepping into his identity for the first time. I also want to shine a light on chubs and super chubs and celebrate their love, their lives, and the unique challenges and joys they experience.

This series is just the beginning. The bear community is so rich with stories, and I’m excited to explore the diversity and complexity of our experiences. These aren’t just love stories—they’re celebrations of who we are, in all our shapes, sizes, and relationships.

BWM: Anything else you’d like to mention?

ND: If you’ve ever felt unseen, if you’ve ever searched for a story that reflects the joy, the challenges, and the beauty of being part of the bear community—this book is for you. *Can We Bear to Love Across the Pacific* isn’t just a romance; it’s a celebration of who we are. I hope it makes you laugh, cry, and feel deeply connected to our incredible community. Let’s show the world that our stories deserve to be told, and let’s celebrate the love that makes us who we are.

Get your copy of Can We Bear to Love Across the Pacific worldwide on Amazon and learn more about the trilogy at www.bearingour.love