Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Teen drama in heartwarming, diverse fairytale retelling.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In ANGELICA AND THE BEAR PRINCE, Angelica has worked so hard to be perfect that she's burnt herself out. Feeling alone and depressed, she starts talking online with the mascot of the local theater. As she opens up to the mascot, known as Per the Bear, about her struggles, she finds a kind and understanding friend. Interested in meeting the real person behind the mascot, she applies and is accepted as an intern at the theater. But then, between her parents, friends, and the internship, the pressure of not letting others down sends her back into a stress spiral. Will Angelica find a way to set everything right?
Is It Any Good?
Complex and featuring a diversely representative cast, this graphic novel is full of thought-provoking moments. Angelica and the Bear Prince weaves together quite a few plot threads, creating a tapestry of the challenges of modern family life through the eyes of teenagers. While Angelica's story makes up most of the plot, we also see into her parents' lives, her best friend's romantic struggles, the story of the Bear Prince, and the history of the local theater's family. The can story feel weighted down by so many storylines, with the plot occasionally hard to follow. However, the lovely illustrations, thoughtful messages about acceptance, communication, and what it means to be a good friend, make this story shine.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the stress Angelica feels in Angelica and the Bear Prince and how she struggles to communicate with her mom. Do you think teenagers are more stressed these days? If so, why? Do you find it easy to talk about your problems with others?
This is a loose fairytale retelling of "East of the Sun and West of the Moon." Why do you think the author chose to use a retelling as a way to tell this story?
This book has many themes woven through the plot. Do you think it's important for stories to have strong messages?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Trung Le Nguyen
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Arts , Fantasy ( Fairy Tales , Magic ) , Royalty ( Princes ) , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Random House Graphic
- Publication date : October 7, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 224
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : December 18, 2025
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