Rosanne Parry

This book is based on an actual wolf somehow separated from his pack. Anyone who loves stories that tug at your emotions will love this book. Swift wants only to be the head of a pack. His life is not an easy one. He faces many challenges in his life. His will to survive is strong. What I loved most about this book is that both kids and adults will enjoy this book. There is information in the back that will reach out to that person who loves reading nonfiction information. The story carries you along to a satisfying end. As a teacher I enjoy reading books that I can recommend to my students. This is one that I know they will really enjoy.… (mehr)

Vega and her younger brother Deneb share the storytelling of a number of challenges and disasters they confront, including the death of a newborn sister; an earthquake and subsequent tidal wave; separation from the rest of their pod; and a lack of salmon.

Rich back matter includes information and photos of the Southern Resident Killer Whale (SRKW) community, a map of the Salish Sea, information about orcas, First Nations of the Salish Sea, other creatures that live there, and "how can I help?"

See also: Odder by Katherine Applegate

Quotes

A little together is more than a feast alone. (13)

I do try. Every day. But Aquila only sees when I do it wrong. (36)

"Always remember, together is better than apart." (Greatmother, 63)

"Watch the water. Always. Do not look away from what you do not understand. Sometimes it will happen in a heartbeat and sometimes in a hundred seasons, but whatever touches the water will touch us all." (Mother, 97)

A will to survive....But not just will....Will, and the knowledge to navigate by. (144)

No, those doubts are a stone I do not have to carry. (246)

I do not know how little ones let go of hard times so easily. My worries stick to me like so many barnacles. (285)… (mehr)