by Larry Kaniut. Perhaps the most misunderstood creature of the outdoors, the bear is seen by some as a cuddly giant and by others as a vicious killer. The truth lies somewhere between. Nothing prepares you for a bear encounter better than learning from those who have experience bears first-hand. Alaska Bear Tales is a collection of more than 200 real-life accounts filled with all the horror, courage, and even humor inherent when man meets bear. These bear tales are so intriguing - so unbelievable - that they often read like fiction.