Sea Wolves: Keepers of the Rainforest. Written by Megan Benedict and Melanie Crowder, with art by Roy Henry Vickers. Astra Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 6 and up

 

"The strong ones know
             they must 
      bring enough 
                    home.

On the distant shore
      wet snouts explore the tide pools
           in full bloom."

In the notes that follow the full text of their book, Megan Benedict and Melanie Crowder speak to their readers: 

"When you think of wolves, what do you see? 

You probably don't imagine beachcombers, tide pool foragers, or wet-eared swimmers paddling between islands. But the sea wolves of western Canada and southeastern Alaska are exactly that. 

These wolves are often smaller and tend to have shorter, coarser, red-tinted fur compared to interior wolves. Though scientists are just beginning to learn about this amazing coastal form of the gray wolf family, Indigenous peoples have long known their unique way of life and respected their roles in the ecosystem."

Throughout their beautiful book, they offer a careful and quiet look at sea wolves as they go about the business of their days. Their lives in the coastal rainforest are observed through paw prints close to the water's edge as they hunt for needed food. The waves will soon wash away the evidence that they have been there. The cool, rainy skies make thick fur wet and salty, which is only impacted even more by the swimming they do in search of food. First clams, then salmon ... they are ready to head back to shore and into the surrounding forest. 

Noise from giant machines working nearby has an effect. The wolves gather, calling the rest of the pack home. They gather to welcome and protect new pups, who will one day become the 'sacred keepers of the rainforest' themselves.  

Roy Henry Vickers, renowned First Nations artist, has created digital illustrations for this book that pay respect to the sea wolves he has watched his entire life. Their quiet presence is shown in small silhouette images on every page, making for an interactive read with little ones. They will want to point out each tiny discovery. 

Back matter includes further notes from the authors that offer a wealth of information concerning 'not your average wolf', their activities and families. Mr. Vickers adds anecdotal accounts of meetings with them, and stories told about them.  

Exceptional in both the writing and the art!