Bear
Bear is my first novel, and it took me a long time to write. In many ways, I needed those years to discover what I truly wanted to say. When I started this book, my daughter was a toddler; by the time I finished, she was a teenager. But everything I learned along the way found its way into these pages.
I wanted to create a story that young readers could relate to—one that explores themes of anxiety, blended families, anger, and low self-worth. It was a joy to collaborate with Pippa Keel Situ, whose fabulous illustrations beautifully capture the role of creative self-expression in mental health.
Despite the book’s darker and more complex themes, I also wanted to bring in lightness and humour. I hope readers find comfort, connection, and maybe even a few laughs along the way.
Learn more about Bear and download reading notes
Winner of the 2026 NZ Booklovers Award for Best Young Adult Book
Winner of the 2024 Storylines Tessa Duder YA Award
Finalist in the 2025 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults
"Bear is a story that is both confronting and comforting. Jasper and the lessons he brings will stay with readers for a long time."
- NZ Booklovers
"Lightfoot has crafted a story that is as haunting as it is human – a powerful, poignant reminder that sometimes, the only way to escape your fears is to face them."
- Kete Books
Bear was the winner of the NZ Booklovers Awards 2026. The judges said, "Lightfoot’s portrayal of Jasper and the common struggles many adolescents face is insightful and tender. The novel, while dealing with painful issues, is lightened by humour and Jasper’s own observations and opinions. Bear is a must-read for both teenagers and the parents of teenagers."
Click here to read further comments and see the other finalists.
Kiri and illustrator Pippa Keel Situ together at the New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults 2025.