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The Odyssey of KP2: An Orphan Seal, a Marine Biologist, and the Fight to Save a Species
When a two day-old Hawaiian monk seal pup is attacked and abandoned by his mother on a beach in Kauai, environmental officials must decide if they should save the newborn animal or allow nature to take its course. But as a member of the most endangered marine mammal species in U.S. waters, Kauai Pup 2, or KP2, is too precious to lose, and he embarks on an odyssey that will take him across an ocean to the only qualified caretaker to accept the job, eminent wildlife biologist Dr. Terrie M. Williams.The local islanders see KP2 as an honored member of their community, but government agents and scientists must consider the important role he could play in gathering knowledge and data about this critically endangered and rare species. Only 1,100 Hawaiian monk seals survive in the wild; if their decline continues without intervention, they face certain extinction within fifty years. In a controversial decision, environmental officials send KP2 to Williams's marine mammal lab in Santa Cruz, California, where she and her team monitor his failing eyesight and gather crucial data that could help save KP2's species.
But while this young seal is the subject of a complex environmental struggle and intense media scrutiny, KP2 is also a boisterous and affectionate animal who changes the lives of the humans who know and care for him-especially that of Williams. Even as she unravels the secret biology of monk seals by studying his behavior and training him, Williams finds a kindred spirit in his loving nature and resilient strength. Their story captures the universal bond between humans and animals and emphasizes the ways we help and rely upon one another. The health of the world's oceans and the survival of people and creatures alike depend on this ancient connection.
The Odyssey of KP2 is an inside look at the life of a scientist and the role that her research plays in the development of conservation efforts, bringing our contemporary environmental landscape to life. It is also the heartwarming portrait of a Hawaiian monk seal whose unforgettable personality never falters, even as his fate hangs in the balance.
But while this young seal is the subject of a complex environmental struggle and intense media scrutiny, KP2 is also a boisterous and affectionate animal who changes the lives of the humans who know and care for him-especially that of Williams. Even as she unravels the secret biology of monk seals by studying his behavior and training him, Williams finds a kindred spirit in his loving nature and resilient strength. Their story captures the universal bond between humans and animals and emphasizes the ways we help and rely upon one another. The health of the world's oceans and the survival of people and creatures alike depend on this ancient connection.
The Odyssey of KP2 is an inside look at the life of a scientist and the role that her research plays in the development of conservation efforts, bringing our contemporary environmental landscape to life. It is also the heartwarming portrait of a Hawaiian monk seal whose unforgettable personality never falters, even as his fate hangs in the balance.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published July 5, 2012
27 people are currently reading
801 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 7, 2019
Well, I definitely fell in love with KP2 while reading this! I found the story of his journey from Hawaii to Santa Cruz and back again, the things Williams and her team discovered by working with him, and the way he inspired people along both coasts really beautiful, and I totally cried at the end when we learn a little more about his mother. I also cried this one other time in the book because it struck a little too close to home corgi-wise. :(
Anyway, this book is one I picked up on a whim at Half Price Books last time I was in, and I’m glad I did. Certainly worth a read if you’re as into animals as I am!
Anyway, this book is one I picked up on a whim at Half Price Books last time I was in, and I’m glad I did. Certainly worth a read if you’re as into animals as I am!
August 3, 2012
A must-read for all pinnipedophiles! KP2's story is touching and inspiring. From orphaned seal to ambassador for his species, and voice for the world's oceans.
January 4, 2020
Thank you, Terrie Williams, for being a true ambassador of our species. I loved your commitment, passion and resilience. The clarity of your thoughts matches beautifully with that of E.O.Wilson’s, who wrote with such purposive force against our sheltered ignorance of the animal kingdom. That we dare destroy what we don’t understand must be some sort of capital sin.
“Together, the members of my lab strive to discover the unique vulnerabilities and capabilities that make a dolphin a dolphin, an otter an otter, a seal a seal. The underlying logic is simple: humans have to know what they are saving before they are able to save it. Thus, the animals and humans of my lab work side by side, day after day, in the singular goal of trying to understand and preserve wild species. Science paves our way to conservation.”
“Together, the members of my lab strive to discover the unique vulnerabilities and capabilities that make a dolphin a dolphin, an otter an otter, a seal a seal. The underlying logic is simple: humans have to know what they are saving before they are able to save it. Thus, the animals and humans of my lab work side by side, day after day, in the singular goal of trying to understand and preserve wild species. Science paves our way to conservation.”
July 19, 2015
This is an awesome book. You can learn a lot from it!
May 12, 2023
“ The anonymity of nature would suddenly change with the arrival of KP2. This remarkable seal, also lovingly known as Hailona, Smoodgey, and Mr. Hoa, inspired nicknames that were as colorful as his personality. Over the years, he would be called Butthead, Honey Boy, Fish Stealer, Little Angel, Bugger, and Elvis of the Seals, depending on his mood and his audience. His celebrity began with his fascination with people, a behavioral anomaly among seals that would, aside from creating a remarkable extended family, repeatedly land him in trouble. Wild animals are not supposed to act this way every fiber of undomesticated creatures urges them to escape human presence. Yet on very rare occasions, for reasons scientists cannot fully explain, an animal breaks from the pack to join us. Such was the case with KP2. He was a wild seal, a member of an endangered species who left his own world to play in ours. Ancient Hawaiians called his kind 'ilio holoikauaua-"the dog that runs in rough water." I simply called him hoa - "friend." From the moment of his birth, he changed how many of us view our lives on this fragile planet.
- The Odyssey of KP2 : An orphan seal and a marine biologist fight to save a species by Terrie M. Williams
.
.
Funny how after i have read “Under a white sky : The future of Nature” last 2 months and the demonstration of human intervention in preservation of nature and wildlife is being highlighted in this book - while efforts is being acknowledged to have been effective, most of the time it worked only in a short term basis. We were introduced to KP2 in the beginning of the book - born as Hawaiian Male Monk Seal , he was rejected by his mother. He doesn’t has any defects but his mother simply refused to care for him. The fact that Hawaiian Monk Seal species has a matriarchal structure rendered scientist speechless as well on this bizarre behaviour. Afraid that he will be injured further due to the neglect of his mother, he was rescued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This is where Terrie M. Williams was somehow connected to this whole rehabilitation process of KP2. Years of bureaucracy and constantly have to prove her credibility as a female marine biologist, Terrie was skeptical at first when she was being approached. She later agreed to help in caring of KP2 because the species is currently in the brink of extinction. Together with her teammates, Beau and Traci, they tried whatever means necessary to ensure KP2’s has high chance to survive in the sea once it got released. The book offered the whole outlook on how Marine Biologists work in order to preserve and conserve the species. Once the animals has been evaluated ‘well’ or ‘fit to be released’, then they will be released accordingly. This ‘memoir’ sort of combined the author’s life and KP2’s story. We were told the story of author’s first involvement with animals and eventually what seems to be interests at the young age has turned to be her lifelong career. As for KP2, he seems to grow up fine except some peculiarities that was not supposed to be exhibited by wildlife animal. He relished human attention and would even swim to beach occupied by locals and tourists just so to get some attention. Children love KP2 and even got a nickname to him - Hoailona. He was particularly closed with a local boy named Kahi. Unfortunately, this is where the clashes begin. Not all locals love him especially fishermen and not all government officers approved this newfound entertainment happened at Kaunakai Wharf. Risk has been calculated and it has been assumed that KP2 should have been taken away before he and anyone got hurt. KP2 ultimately was shipped off to the Long Marine Lab at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Honestly, i understand both locals and Biologist side on this. BUT, i also need to point out that one of the many rules that Hawaiian sets for foreigners (tourists/travelers) when they come to visit is Don’t take any lava rocks, Dont touch Honu (turtle) and make sure your sunscreen is an environmental friendly product so it will not harm coral reefs. That rules ultimately reflect how serious Hawaiian is in making sure their nature is being respected as well as preserved as it is. Unfortunately, this is where it clashes with the effort to save KP2. For locals, these government-endorsed biologist is the thief. For a short while, they even dubbed KP2 as the stolen child. For Terrie, Traci and Beau, locals just dont get it - to expect almost blind seal to survive nearby human population is putting both human and seal in a danger predicament. Overall, this has been an eye opening journey - i have learned so many things about seal particularly Hawaiian Monk Seals. From their dark history being hunted down by human beings for their skin and fat, their child-like curiosity that sometimes can be dangerous to them, their intellect in creating their own games just so they could play and their presence in the ecosystem is much more than just being a predator (as it turned out their poos is the food for phytoplankton and phytoplankton is the food for fishes) ; they may eat fishes but they also indirectly a fish farmers. The author also demonstrated the double standard that society has towards wildlife Biologist and Veterinarian when both actually save animals despite having different methods. Another analysis i came to appreciate is when the author did not held back in highlighting barriers and risks of saving a wildlife species - long winded governmental bureaucracy, cultural clashes (some parts of island are sacred), funding being cut (most rehabilitation wildlife centres required massive cost to maintain) , water pollution (marine debris and oil spill is a silent killer for sea wildlife) and the incompetence of local agency approach in handling KP2 (the local agencies still could not agree on where best to keep KP2 once it has completed his rehabilitation period). To cut short, I believe i have summarised most of what has been comprised in the book. If you love marine animals particularly seals, this is one of the books you should not skipped.
- The Odyssey of KP2 : An orphan seal and a marine biologist fight to save a species by Terrie M. Williams
.
.
Funny how after i have read “Under a white sky : The future of Nature” last 2 months and the demonstration of human intervention in preservation of nature and wildlife is being highlighted in this book - while efforts is being acknowledged to have been effective, most of the time it worked only in a short term basis. We were introduced to KP2 in the beginning of the book - born as Hawaiian Male Monk Seal , he was rejected by his mother. He doesn’t has any defects but his mother simply refused to care for him. The fact that Hawaiian Monk Seal species has a matriarchal structure rendered scientist speechless as well on this bizarre behaviour. Afraid that he will be injured further due to the neglect of his mother, he was rescued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This is where Terrie M. Williams was somehow connected to this whole rehabilitation process of KP2. Years of bureaucracy and constantly have to prove her credibility as a female marine biologist, Terrie was skeptical at first when she was being approached. She later agreed to help in caring of KP2 because the species is currently in the brink of extinction. Together with her teammates, Beau and Traci, they tried whatever means necessary to ensure KP2’s has high chance to survive in the sea once it got released. The book offered the whole outlook on how Marine Biologists work in order to preserve and conserve the species. Once the animals has been evaluated ‘well’ or ‘fit to be released’, then they will be released accordingly. This ‘memoir’ sort of combined the author’s life and KP2’s story. We were told the story of author’s first involvement with animals and eventually what seems to be interests at the young age has turned to be her lifelong career. As for KP2, he seems to grow up fine except some peculiarities that was not supposed to be exhibited by wildlife animal. He relished human attention and would even swim to beach occupied by locals and tourists just so to get some attention. Children love KP2 and even got a nickname to him - Hoailona. He was particularly closed with a local boy named Kahi. Unfortunately, this is where the clashes begin. Not all locals love him especially fishermen and not all government officers approved this newfound entertainment happened at Kaunakai Wharf. Risk has been calculated and it has been assumed that KP2 should have been taken away before he and anyone got hurt. KP2 ultimately was shipped off to the Long Marine Lab at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Honestly, i understand both locals and Biologist side on this. BUT, i also need to point out that one of the many rules that Hawaiian sets for foreigners (tourists/travelers) when they come to visit is Don’t take any lava rocks, Dont touch Honu (turtle) and make sure your sunscreen is an environmental friendly product so it will not harm coral reefs. That rules ultimately reflect how serious Hawaiian is in making sure their nature is being respected as well as preserved as it is. Unfortunately, this is where it clashes with the effort to save KP2. For locals, these government-endorsed biologist is the thief. For a short while, they even dubbed KP2 as the stolen child. For Terrie, Traci and Beau, locals just dont get it - to expect almost blind seal to survive nearby human population is putting both human and seal in a danger predicament. Overall, this has been an eye opening journey - i have learned so many things about seal particularly Hawaiian Monk Seals. From their dark history being hunted down by human beings for their skin and fat, their child-like curiosity that sometimes can be dangerous to them, their intellect in creating their own games just so they could play and their presence in the ecosystem is much more than just being a predator (as it turned out their poos is the food for phytoplankton and phytoplankton is the food for fishes) ; they may eat fishes but they also indirectly a fish farmers. The author also demonstrated the double standard that society has towards wildlife Biologist and Veterinarian when both actually save animals despite having different methods. Another analysis i came to appreciate is when the author did not held back in highlighting barriers and risks of saving a wildlife species - long winded governmental bureaucracy, cultural clashes (some parts of island are sacred), funding being cut (most rehabilitation wildlife centres required massive cost to maintain) , water pollution (marine debris and oil spill is a silent killer for sea wildlife) and the incompetence of local agency approach in handling KP2 (the local agencies still could not agree on where best to keep KP2 once it has completed his rehabilitation period). To cut short, I believe i have summarised most of what has been comprised in the book. If you love marine animals particularly seals, this is one of the books you should not skipped.
April 23, 2024
This is a mostly unsentimental account of the baby monk seal called KP2. Orphaned, rescued, going blind, almost euthanized. He was then sent to USC to be studied with the hope that he could help his species to avoid extinction. But Hawaii wanted him back. The book was written in 2012. I wanted to know where he is now so I found the video linked below. This would be a great book for any budding marine scientist.
https://youtu.be/kC-9Vt3VxD4?si=mQw2I...
https://youtu.be/kC-9Vt3VxD4?si=mQw2I...
May 24, 2023
I'm strangely obsessed with this Hawaiian monk seal, and I was as fascinated by the science that the author wove throughout his story as I was touched by the relationships that his scientists, trainers, and fans built with him over the year. I hope that the research that this team has been able to complete helps save this species and in other conservation efforts. The Odyssey of KP2 gave real consideration and fair treatment to some thorny conservation issues.
January 26, 2013
A wonderful book to read while sitting on the beach on Oahu and actually watching a monk seal swimming off shore! True!
April 20, 2013
Wonderful read! Highly recommend!
May 7, 2024
I had intended to buy The Odyssey of KP2 and pass it on when I was done with it. I didn’t intend to become so engaged, even though I volunteered at University of California’s Long Marine Lab, where most of the action takes place, and was acquainted with Dr. Terrie Williams through my docent training. I assumed it would be a rather dry documentation, of interest to degreed ecologists like myself, but the kind of scientific treatise I’d read once and discard.
But it turned out to be, in addition to the science, a lovely story of the seal’s relationship with its trainers. The usual room, board and behavior challenges in animal biology are outweighed by challenges with the public and funding agencies. Dr. Terrie struggles to coordinate and make best decisions when pulled in several directions.
An endangered, starving, and nearly blind Hawaiian monk seal pup comes to California for rehabilitation in 2009. But not everyone in Hawaii sees it this way. And some Hawaiian fishermen would rather he were left to die. A lot of groups pushing and pulling, and meanwhile the cost of a new heated pool, eye exams, food and handlers must be covered. I learned a lot about monk seals, KP2’s personality, and the amazing Dr. Terrie, who devoted most of her life to researching endangered marine mammals by measuring what each species needs to survive, plus animal care, funding, public outreach, and of course designing and evaluating the research.
Though my time at the LML was after KP2’s, I recognized many of the other characters, marine mammals that for diverse reasons were brought into captivity. Most, like KP2, had medical problems that compromised their ability to feed themselves. Some had social problems and attacked other endangered animals. I enjoyed reading more about them. I also got a big kick out of her reference to different LML employees’ laughs. She definitely got them right, which made me smile.
I’m happy to report that the “trajectory for extinction within 50 years” stated in the Epilogue (2012) for Hawaiian monk seals seems to be reversing over the past 5 years. The population is slowly growing. Most likely this is due to a combination of public awareness and action, and scientific analysis of the environmental needs of the seals. Dr. Terrie Williams remains a major marine mammal researcher at University of California.
I’m keeping my copy of Odyssey for now, and recommend it to anyone interested in marine mammals and the scientists working to sustain and build their populations.
But it turned out to be, in addition to the science, a lovely story of the seal’s relationship with its trainers. The usual room, board and behavior challenges in animal biology are outweighed by challenges with the public and funding agencies. Dr. Terrie struggles to coordinate and make best decisions when pulled in several directions.
An endangered, starving, and nearly blind Hawaiian monk seal pup comes to California for rehabilitation in 2009. But not everyone in Hawaii sees it this way. And some Hawaiian fishermen would rather he were left to die. A lot of groups pushing and pulling, and meanwhile the cost of a new heated pool, eye exams, food and handlers must be covered. I learned a lot about monk seals, KP2’s personality, and the amazing Dr. Terrie, who devoted most of her life to researching endangered marine mammals by measuring what each species needs to survive, plus animal care, funding, public outreach, and of course designing and evaluating the research.
Though my time at the LML was after KP2’s, I recognized many of the other characters, marine mammals that for diverse reasons were brought into captivity. Most, like KP2, had medical problems that compromised their ability to feed themselves. Some had social problems and attacked other endangered animals. I enjoyed reading more about them. I also got a big kick out of her reference to different LML employees’ laughs. She definitely got them right, which made me smile.
I’m happy to report that the “trajectory for extinction within 50 years” stated in the Epilogue (2012) for Hawaiian monk seals seems to be reversing over the past 5 years. The population is slowly growing. Most likely this is due to a combination of public awareness and action, and scientific analysis of the environmental needs of the seals. Dr. Terrie Williams remains a major marine mammal researcher at University of California.
I’m keeping my copy of Odyssey for now, and recommend it to anyone interested in marine mammals and the scientists working to sustain and build their populations.
August 29, 2013
What a delightful look into the world of Hawaiian Monk Seals, in particular one tagged as Kauai Pup 2, also known as KP2, but later christened Ho'ailona. Poor little KP2 was not only cruelly ignored and abandoned by his mother when he was born, but he was viciously attacked by a large male, who was likely his father. If not for emergency rescue, KP2 would have died. Instead, he was saved by marine conservationists in Hawaii, who taught him how to swim on a pink boogie board. He was a special monk seal in that he displayed an extraordinary need to be around people, making kids his friends.
But it isn't long before controversy threatens KP2. The local fishermen want the seal and his ilk gone because they compete against them for fish in the ocean and are also in danger of getting tangled in their nets. And KP2 was starting to go blind.
He's then whisked away to California to live under the care and be studied by Terrie Williams and her research team. By observing, taking blood samples and training KP2, Terrie had enough data now to form a better understanding of monk seals, how they're different from other seals and developed a passion to do all she can to prevent their extinction.
KP2 has retained his puppy playfulness, learned to cope with his poor eyesight and as promised to the people of Hawaii, been returned to them where he currently lives in Waikiki Aquarium, his blindness making it impossible for him to be returned to the wild, and he has his own Facebook page.
One note I was really pleased to read at the end, was that his mother returned to the same beach where she birthed KP2 and she gave birth to a brother for him, and this time she nursed her baby instead of abandoning him.
But it isn't long before controversy threatens KP2. The local fishermen want the seal and his ilk gone because they compete against them for fish in the ocean and are also in danger of getting tangled in their nets. And KP2 was starting to go blind.
He's then whisked away to California to live under the care and be studied by Terrie Williams and her research team. By observing, taking blood samples and training KP2, Terrie had enough data now to form a better understanding of monk seals, how they're different from other seals and developed a passion to do all she can to prevent their extinction.
KP2 has retained his puppy playfulness, learned to cope with his poor eyesight and as promised to the people of Hawaii, been returned to them where he currently lives in Waikiki Aquarium, his blindness making it impossible for him to be returned to the wild, and he has his own Facebook page.
One note I was really pleased to read at the end, was that his mother returned to the same beach where she birthed KP2 and she gave birth to a brother for him, and this time she nursed her baby instead of abandoning him.
August 13, 2012
This book was clearly written as a labor of love, and it shows. Dr. Williams is passionate about her work and this story and the whole book shines with that. As a biologist myself, I recognized many of her motivations, that ferocious drive many of us possess to understand the wild world that we love.
The author isn't a trained storyteller, and unfortunately that shows too. The book's structure is somewhat clumsy in many ways, and there isn't a lot of nuance to the writing. Sometimes that makes it a bit jarring to read, but it's not a huge detraction overall. I'm very glad to have read this book, and here's hoping that its publication helps to generate some funding and awareness for the plight of the monk seals in the world.
The author isn't a trained storyteller, and unfortunately that shows too. The book's structure is somewhat clumsy in many ways, and there isn't a lot of nuance to the writing. Sometimes that makes it a bit jarring to read, but it's not a huge detraction overall. I'm very glad to have read this book, and here's hoping that its publication helps to generate some funding and awareness for the plight of the monk seals in the world.
July 13, 2024
Was given this book by Terrie when working in her lab while caring for KP2 at Long Marine Lab, so of course I had to read it- beyond learning more of Hoailona’s story, it was a wonderful book that I would highly recommend especially for lovers of the ocean, marine biology, endangered species, and marine mammals! I read it and enjoyed it several times. If you have lived in the Santa Cruz area, it’s definitely worth checking out- lots of amazing science happens at LML! Marine Mammal Physiology Project rocks!!! So grateful Terrie wrote this book.
December 15, 2012
LOVE this book! It was enlightening to really read the story of a scientist, the way she thinks, her heart for the plight of endangered species, and the monk seal in general. I was particularly interested in the ways in which her scientific work had so many cultural and other barriers, and how much communication and trust need to be part of everyone's work.
April 3, 2013
If all endangered species were highlighted in a novel such as this, they might have a fighting chance! Without personifying monk seals, Terrie Williams has given everyone a feel for what it takes to change the forces of nature. Will monk seals make it or won't they? Tune in, about 10 years from now to find out!
June 19, 2018
Outstanding account of a marine biologist fight to save a seal. This will appeal to all animal lovers and those that cherish our marine life. The story is told with heartwarming utmost care for the seal and the critical work the marine biologist conduct to save marine species. I highly recommend this book
December 24, 2024
Cute story about KP2 who I had heard of but known much. Interesting look into the UC Santa Cruz research facility, it was written so anyone could ready but I def want to know so much more about the research and training being done as it was just a taste of it in this book.
August 4, 2014
wonderful book :-)
November 29, 2014
I really couldn't put this down. A clearer look at what it takes to complete research on endangered animals.
June 27, 2017
I don't even know where to begin with this book. I suppose I can start off by saying that I absolutely loved it. At first, I was pretty nervous to start reading this book. Why? Well, to be fully honest, I was kind of afraid that it would go over my head or be boring due to writing style. Why is that? Well I'm not a marine biologist or really a biologist of any kind. I am not a scientist or a vet or any kind of special title with special knowledge in that area. Sure I could piece it together, but that wouldn't make it a really enjoyable book. However, my worries were for naught, thankfully. This book was exactly the way I wanted it to be!
Dr. Terrie M. Williams is a marine biologist and the director of the Marine Mammal Physiology Project at the University of California, Santa Cruz. She is also the co-creator of the Center for Ocean Health. She is a wildlife biologist, and she wrote this book. The Odyssey of KP2 is an award-winning book. It won the 2013 AAAS/Subaru Prize for Excellence in Science Books in the Young Adult Category.
Most times, when collegiate scholars write books and publications, they are for a certain set of academics and at a very high academia level. This is mostly done for their findings, of course. Odyssey of KP2 wasn't written in this way and for that I must thank Dr. Williams. This book really is just for anyone with a love for animal! Yes, there are scientific experiments and findings, but they are presented in a way that is easily understandable. Besides that, its also very personal.
Most science books and articles I read are all about just the science. I understand that science is subjective but I love seeing the impact that the subject in question has on the researcher. This book is full of love, passion and dedication. I love that Dr. Williams' heart comes out onto the page so much. Its also really cool to hear not just about KP2, but about how she grew up and what things have shaped her the most into becoming the person she is.
The people she worked with were also very intriguing and I really liked reading about their dedication to their work. Namely, Beau Richter and Traci Kendall, the two trainers that work with Dr. Williams at the facilities at UCSC. There were also numerous volunteeers who went unnamed except for in acknowledgements, but after reading the book, I'm going to add in a round of props for them *insert props and kudos here*. They worked hard to achieve a goal and they also deserve recognition in my review.
So, what is KP2 about? KP2 is actually the name of a monk seal. KP2 stands for Kauai Pup 2. This book is all about the journey KP2 made in the early stages of his life. It began with his birth on May 1, 2008. He was abandoned by his mother two days later and had been attacked by other monk seals. He was picked up by people and placed in a facility to be rehabilitated. In the facility he was found to be partially blind. His eyes had glazed over and his vision was starting to leave him. After some time, he was released back to the wild. However, by this time, KP2 was really enjoying human companionship. His eyes began to clear up but then he went to Molokai and started playing with people on the beaches. Eventually, his eyes glazed again during this interaction time. After much debate, the options were euthanization or relocation. There was nowhere for him on the island facility wise, fisherman didn't want him around, the children loved him and the Molokai people wanted him to remain with them as they saw him as a gift from the ocean. The other option was to have him taken to California and placed under the care of Dr. Terrie Williams for research. Compromises were met and it was agreed that KP2 would go to the lab and be returned to Hawaii after a year. What was the big deal about the monk seal? Hawaiian monk seals are an endangered species. Endangered species need help, but at the same time, is it really the best thing to have such a rare and special animal in the hands of scientists to study? To Dr. Williams it was. She wanted to save the Hawaiian Monk Seal population. Monk seals had not been studied in great detail before then. KP2 was an ambassador and beacon of hope for his species. This book is all about KP2: his life, his struggles, and the impact he made on the people crossing his path.
The people of Hawaii (except the fishermen of course), love KP2 and before he left, he was given a proper Hawaiian name. He became Ho'ailona. He was an islander and Hawaii his home.
The very first chapter retells of an expedition that Dr. Williams' went on to Antarctica to study Weddell seals. This account is also very intriguing and calls out the explorer in us all. It also serves as a great starting point. Later on, it serves to provide great background for comparision between seal species.
What else do I love about this book? There is a bit of something for everyone who likes animals. It has science, it has history and geography, it has mythology and legend, it even has a few Hawaiian words to learn. As I was reading it, I found myself more and more engrossed. I felt I was learning more about things that school wouldn't teach me a whole lot about. I learned more about Hawaii, monk seals, and ocean animals. It was really neat to hear why Hawaiian monk seals can only live in the Hawaiian area and how Ho'ailona was able to turn things around. Even with a slight disability, he never stopped living and having fun. I would say that KP2 is a real inspiration to everyone.
He inspired ocean cleanups with schools, he was a voice for the ocean and its animals, he helped collect information about his species, and he gave more humans an understanding of the critical balance between people, animals and other parts of nature.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone. It was incredible and I can't say enough for it. There is so much more to read about that I've not even mentioned. The studies, the relationship between KP2 and his trainers and Dr. Williams, the hardships the lab faced, and the other numerous stories about the two years that KP2 lived in California.
There are a couple of black and white pictures of KP2 in the book, which I loved and looked at several times while I was reading. The cover is beautiful. I think its one of the nicest book covers I've ever seen on a non-fiction animal book. I would buy it just to showcase the nice cover on a coffee table or shelf.
The book is divided into 3 parts, which makes pacing while reading really easy. I read almost a part a day, which ends up with me reading this one in 3 days. It goes by fast, much faster than I wanted it to. I want to read so much more about KP2, but there isn't any more.
Easily comprehendable, written in the moment, and full of heart, The Odyssey of KP2: An Orphan Seal, a Marine Biologist, and the Fight to Save a Species is a remarkable book that should be on every animal lovers' bookshelf. It is a true story that would make an incredible movie or documentary. After reading it, I wanted to go out and do a beach clean-up or go see some seals....and it made me want to read more.
Dr. Terrie M. Williams is a marine biologist and the director of the Marine Mammal Physiology Project at the University of California, Santa Cruz. She is also the co-creator of the Center for Ocean Health. She is a wildlife biologist, and she wrote this book. The Odyssey of KP2 is an award-winning book. It won the 2013 AAAS/Subaru Prize for Excellence in Science Books in the Young Adult Category.
Most times, when collegiate scholars write books and publications, they are for a certain set of academics and at a very high academia level. This is mostly done for their findings, of course. Odyssey of KP2 wasn't written in this way and for that I must thank Dr. Williams. This book really is just for anyone with a love for animal! Yes, there are scientific experiments and findings, but they are presented in a way that is easily understandable. Besides that, its also very personal.
Most science books and articles I read are all about just the science. I understand that science is subjective but I love seeing the impact that the subject in question has on the researcher. This book is full of love, passion and dedication. I love that Dr. Williams' heart comes out onto the page so much. Its also really cool to hear not just about KP2, but about how she grew up and what things have shaped her the most into becoming the person she is.
The people she worked with were also very intriguing and I really liked reading about their dedication to their work. Namely, Beau Richter and Traci Kendall, the two trainers that work with Dr. Williams at the facilities at UCSC. There were also numerous volunteeers who went unnamed except for in acknowledgements, but after reading the book, I'm going to add in a round of props for them *insert props and kudos here*. They worked hard to achieve a goal and they also deserve recognition in my review.
So, what is KP2 about? KP2 is actually the name of a monk seal. KP2 stands for Kauai Pup 2. This book is all about the journey KP2 made in the early stages of his life. It began with his birth on May 1, 2008. He was abandoned by his mother two days later and had been attacked by other monk seals. He was picked up by people and placed in a facility to be rehabilitated. In the facility he was found to be partially blind. His eyes had glazed over and his vision was starting to leave him. After some time, he was released back to the wild. However, by this time, KP2 was really enjoying human companionship. His eyes began to clear up but then he went to Molokai and started playing with people on the beaches. Eventually, his eyes glazed again during this interaction time. After much debate, the options were euthanization or relocation. There was nowhere for him on the island facility wise, fisherman didn't want him around, the children loved him and the Molokai people wanted him to remain with them as they saw him as a gift from the ocean. The other option was to have him taken to California and placed under the care of Dr. Terrie Williams for research. Compromises were met and it was agreed that KP2 would go to the lab and be returned to Hawaii after a year. What was the big deal about the monk seal? Hawaiian monk seals are an endangered species. Endangered species need help, but at the same time, is it really the best thing to have such a rare and special animal in the hands of scientists to study? To Dr. Williams it was. She wanted to save the Hawaiian Monk Seal population. Monk seals had not been studied in great detail before then. KP2 was an ambassador and beacon of hope for his species. This book is all about KP2: his life, his struggles, and the impact he made on the people crossing his path.
The people of Hawaii (except the fishermen of course), love KP2 and before he left, he was given a proper Hawaiian name. He became Ho'ailona. He was an islander and Hawaii his home.
The very first chapter retells of an expedition that Dr. Williams' went on to Antarctica to study Weddell seals. This account is also very intriguing and calls out the explorer in us all. It also serves as a great starting point. Later on, it serves to provide great background for comparision between seal species.
What else do I love about this book? There is a bit of something for everyone who likes animals. It has science, it has history and geography, it has mythology and legend, it even has a few Hawaiian words to learn. As I was reading it, I found myself more and more engrossed. I felt I was learning more about things that school wouldn't teach me a whole lot about. I learned more about Hawaii, monk seals, and ocean animals. It was really neat to hear why Hawaiian monk seals can only live in the Hawaiian area and how Ho'ailona was able to turn things around. Even with a slight disability, he never stopped living and having fun. I would say that KP2 is a real inspiration to everyone.
He inspired ocean cleanups with schools, he was a voice for the ocean and its animals, he helped collect information about his species, and he gave more humans an understanding of the critical balance between people, animals and other parts of nature.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone. It was incredible and I can't say enough for it. There is so much more to read about that I've not even mentioned. The studies, the relationship between KP2 and his trainers and Dr. Williams, the hardships the lab faced, and the other numerous stories about the two years that KP2 lived in California.
There are a couple of black and white pictures of KP2 in the book, which I loved and looked at several times while I was reading. The cover is beautiful. I think its one of the nicest book covers I've ever seen on a non-fiction animal book. I would buy it just to showcase the nice cover on a coffee table or shelf.
The book is divided into 3 parts, which makes pacing while reading really easy. I read almost a part a day, which ends up with me reading this one in 3 days. It goes by fast, much faster than I wanted it to. I want to read so much more about KP2, but there isn't any more.
Easily comprehendable, written in the moment, and full of heart, The Odyssey of KP2: An Orphan Seal, a Marine Biologist, and the Fight to Save a Species is a remarkable book that should be on every animal lovers' bookshelf. It is a true story that would make an incredible movie or documentary. After reading it, I wanted to go out and do a beach clean-up or go see some seals....and it made me want to read more.
December 16, 2020
Oh my god, this is a gut punch right in the feelies this one!
Just look at the face on the book cover! KP2 is just bloody lovely! A seal that's like a Labrador!
Abandoned by his mummo, attacked by a grown male seal shortly after being born, attacked by his own mother! Nearly blind due to an eye condition. The poor bloody sod!!
Then he is "adopted" by the Hawaiian population that he befriends and ends up at a research facility on the West coast of America. As horrible as "research facility" sounds, it's his behaviour that is studied by large mammal expert Terrie Williams in order to try and offset/determine the problems faced by the the declining seal population of his heritage.
Finally he is rehomed back in Hawaii thankfully and proves to be a "species educator" to young people, ecologists, wildlife researchers.
What comes across mostly in this book is how once again, the selfishness of humans and our greed has driven marine animals to the brink of extinction. Sad but true.
Just look at the face on the book cover! KP2 is just bloody lovely! A seal that's like a Labrador!
Abandoned by his mummo, attacked by a grown male seal shortly after being born, attacked by his own mother! Nearly blind due to an eye condition. The poor bloody sod!!
Then he is "adopted" by the Hawaiian population that he befriends and ends up at a research facility on the West coast of America. As horrible as "research facility" sounds, it's his behaviour that is studied by large mammal expert Terrie Williams in order to try and offset/determine the problems faced by the the declining seal population of his heritage.
Finally he is rehomed back in Hawaii thankfully and proves to be a "species educator" to young people, ecologists, wildlife researchers.
What comes across mostly in this book is how once again, the selfishness of humans and our greed has driven marine animals to the brink of extinction. Sad but true.
August 8, 2021
I guess I'm a sucker for an orphaned wild animal story. Last year it was Wesley the owl and now it's this Hawaiian monk seal. Born on the north shore of Kauai he was promptly attacked by adult seals including his mother. Because these seals are critically endangered and an icon to the Hawaiians the attacks were seen and the baby was rescued. The book goes on to describe this amazing seal with a huge personality and a tolerance for being poked and prodded in the name of research. In truth the seal loved humans and usually acted more like a puppy. Based on the numbers published here the entire population of Hawaiian monk seals is probably less than one thousand now. Unfortunately another species appears headed to memory. Highly recommended for animal lovers.
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June 13, 2025Got the ick from some unnecessary passive commentary referencing homeless people, "smuggled" immigrants, gang members etc that come off very out-of-touch
Less offensive is a similarly passive comment towards vegans, which seems contradictory in a book about cherishing animals lol. The different perspectives involved in bringing KP2 home are interesting as I generally do not believe animals should be kept in captivity, and I can't help but wonder if the people involved in caring for him feel similarly about animals that aren't cute and friendly marine mammals.
Otherwise, a very digestable memoir of a memorable seal pup and also I cried when I read about the children across the Pacific organizing a beach clean up 🥺 As you can see I am very sensitive.........
Less offensive is a similarly passive comment towards vegans, which seems contradictory in a book about cherishing animals lol. The different perspectives involved in bringing KP2 home are interesting as I generally do not believe animals should be kept in captivity, and I can't help but wonder if the people involved in caring for him feel similarly about animals that aren't cute and friendly marine mammals.
Otherwise, a very digestable memoir of a memorable seal pup and also I cried when I read about the children across the Pacific organizing a beach clean up 🥺 As you can see I am very sensitive.........
January 1, 2025
A great nonfiction book that reads like a story while also being informative! As someone who is interested in marine mammal behavior, I’ve looked into labs that Dr. Williams has partnered with, and she started a study at a zoo I worked at right before I left, so I loved reading about the research that was written in a accessible way. The book also touches on the importance of conservation and saving endangered species while encountering opposition from local communities. It highlights the common struggle of science vs economics and culture in an understanding way and how we might move forward.
July 26, 2017
An interesting and touching story that I somehow, despite an apparent storm of online controversy, never heard of. Having read "Death at SeaWorld: Shamu and the Dark Side of Killer Whales in Captivity" it was interesting to see how often Ms. Williams referred to SeaWorld and the role (albeit minor) they played in KP2's life along with other aquariums (SeaLife, Waikiki, etc). As a scientist I appreciated her goals for working with the endangered species and I thought she was very thoughtful in presenting the various "sides" of the issue without judgement.
June 27, 2017
Very informative and rather fair look at the issues around saving endangered species.
This is a good book to read if you are thinking of going into animal training, marine biology, oceanography, or any marine science. So many disciplines must interact in the best interests of the creatures we decide to save. And this true story makes the reader aware of the struggles and perseverance needed to accomplish your goals.. An easy and interesting read...
This is a good book to read if you are thinking of going into animal training, marine biology, oceanography, or any marine science. So many disciplines must interact in the best interests of the creatures we decide to save. And this true story makes the reader aware of the struggles and perseverance needed to accomplish your goals.. An easy and interesting read...
February 16, 2024
I fell so deeply in love with the story of KP2. It was heart wrenching at many points from the beginning to the end but I just couldn’t put it down. Fascinating how political the struggle for his care, his home and his freedom was across the Pacific Ocean. He is the only person I have wanted to follow on Facebook in the last decade!
April 18, 2018
If you liked Alex and Me, or if you like animals and/or science (or both like me) this is a great book. Also interesting book which explores the relationship between humans and the environment, and how a scientist got involved in a lot of public outreach/ activism. Recommend it!
June 5, 2019
Having once held grand plans of working for Greenpeace, books like this always catch my attention. I know pretty much nothing about the Hawaiian monk seal, other than that they are severely endangered. And they're adorable, but that's pretty much a given for any seal. Except maybe elephant seals.
July 26, 2022
A charming story about a little-known species. This book opened my eyes to the threats that the Hawaiian Monk Seal faces. The writing is good and makes KP2 feel almost dog-like in its portrayal of him.
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