FICTION

A Friend for Lakota: The Incredible True Story of a Wolf Who Braved Bullying

by Jamie Dutcher
DUTCHER, Jim & . photos by Jim Dutcher & Jamie Dutcher. 48p. further reading. maps. websites. National Geographic. 2015. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9781426320828.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 3—This is a book with an unexpected mission. While at first glance it appears to be a standard National Geographic animal title, it also tackles the topic of bullying. Lakota is the omega cub of an Idaho wolf litter who grows up to be a strong pack member with the help of Matsi, the beta cub, who protects and stands up for his brother. The authors adopted this cub pack and protected them in a natural reserve, observing and photographing them over six years. In addition to gaining insights about wolves, readers see how important an "upstander" can be to a victim of bullying—even in nature. The story is simple but works on many levels, and the photographs are stunning. The authors also provide background on their research and offer additional resources about wolves and bullying.
VERDICT A useful title for most libraries.
Reviewed by Dorcas Hand, Annunciation Orthodox School, Houston, TX
Lakota, a gray wolf, is bullied by his pack until pack-mate Matsi defends him. The authors/photographers document Lakota's rough treatment as an omega and his confidence-building friendship with Matsi. The compelling story is accompanied by striking nature photography, but without labels it's difficult to tell the wolves apart. Back matter includes additional information about wolves and the authors' conservation efforts. Map, reading list, websites.
 , Oct 01, 2015

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