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Elizabeth Kain

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A Wolf Called Romeo

by Nick Jans

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Elizabeth Kain said: " Nick Jans’ poignant, beautifully written, hard-to-put-down book touches on so many important themes: the potentials and pitfalls of interspecies relationships; the politics and intricacies of wildlife management; cultural attitudes regarding the suff Nick Jans’ poignant, beautifully written, hard-to-put-down book touches on so many important themes: the potentials and pitfalls of interspecies relationships; the politics and intricacies of wildlife management; cultural attitudes regarding the suffering and harvesting of wild animals and whether they are even important as living beings in their own right; human/wildlife coexistence; the deep structural flaws in our so-called justice system; and the lack of empathy that seems to pervade our culture.

But most importantly, Jans’ book is about a particular black wolf-A Wolf Called Romeo-a compelling, fascinating, unique being. Jans’ perceptive description of Romeo-not just a random wild wolf, but a unique individual that Jans came to know over a period of years-allows the reader to see beyond the stereotypes, unconscious filters and projections that all too often define humanity’s view of wolves. His attention to subtle details gleaned from hours of observation speak of one who has great familiarity and knowledge of wildlife. In addition, interwoven into the fabric of Romeo’s story is a wealth of information about wolves in general and their historical treatment by humans. This information provides a crucial context for the reader to better understand and appreciate Romeo’s behavior (the typical wolf behaviors as well as the atypical ones) as well as what he was up against. Romeo’s playful personality, intelligence, reasoning powers and his immense drive and capacity for peaceful relationships come to life under Jans’ pen.

Much of Romeo’s behavior runs contrary to the conventional wisdom regarding how wild wolves are believed to behave and prompts us to ponder how much we really don’t fathom about the inner workings of wolves, or any other animal for that matter, including humans.

Ironically, Romeo embodied a maturity, restraint and tolerance that was completely lacking in his adversaries, Myers and Peacock. At the same time pathetic and despicable, their lack of a moral compass; absence of conscience; need to be seen as important; enjoyment of cruelty; belief that laws don’t apply to them and willingness to do whatever they please to get what they want are hallmarks of certain psychological personality disorders. As such, A Wolf Called Romeo also prompts the reader to consider what forces result in such twisted versions of humanity, as well as how inadequate our current systems are in regards to accountability, recidivism, and rehabilitation.

This book describes how many of the people of Juneau embraced a new normal as Romeo drew them together and enriched their lives immeasurably, bringing joy, incredible personal and emotional growth and hopefully new ways of thinking and being in this world. And ultimately, through A Wolf Called Romeo, Romeo’s amazing life has created a ripple effect whose momentum continues to touch people through space and time in similar ways, opening their hearts and minds to a better recognition of the bonds we share with all living creatures, if we can pause long enough in our busy lives to rediscover and nurture those lost or damaged connections. ...more "

Feb 15, 2017 07:18PM · see review