A Wolf Called Wander by Rosanne Parry is a poetic and well-written book. It takes readers on a journey with a young wolf who gets separated from his family when a rival pack attacks. He must learn to hunt, to find water, but most importantly find a place to call home.

Wander (the wolf in the story) is a good example of never losing hope. After a massive injury trying to hunt an elk all alone, Wander is on the verge of starvation.

But he keeps thinking of finding any of his pack’s survivors, which helps him carry on. Wander soon meets a raven, with whom he forms their own pack to benefit both of their needs. Together, this dynamic duo overcome starvation, hunters, a wildfire, and even manage to find a happy ending for both.

This book is based on the true story of a wolf named OR-7, or Journey, who traveled an astonishing 1000 miles+ from Oregon to Northern California. He lived twice the average wolf’s lifespan. More information about wolves and Journey can be found at the end of the book. 

OR-7 (Journey)

Wander finds many challenges to overcome, therefore making the book a page-turner. And Rosanne Parry’s talent with words gives an in-depth look to Wander’s emotions and feelings. She uses a very poetic style of writing which absorbs readers in the story, giving them a wolf’s view of the world. 

I did feel it is more like a long poem than a book, but I liked the story it revealed. I would really recommend this book to kids who like artistic and creative stories. Overall, I enjoyed A Wolf Called Wander and think it is a book worth reading.

A Wolf Called Wander by Rosanne Parry is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.