Voices from the Wild

What would it be like if more than two dozen different wild animals from around the world got together to boast about their senses? David Bouchard delivers a unique exploration of the realm of the senses in 25 animal portraits. In warm, lyrical verse, Bouchard introduces the reader to some fascinating aspects of natural history and explores each sense-- sight, smell, touch, hearing, and taste-- through the voices of such captivating animals as the eagle, orca, wildebeest, cougar, elephant, moose, koala, and wolf.

Enhancing Bouchard's whimsical poetry are the wildlife paintings of noted British Columbia artist Ron Parker. In fact, it is the artist whom the various animals try to impress with their respective senses, whether it is the grizzly's lofty claims for best smell, the penguin's gentle declaration of superior vision, or the gorilla's confident assertion of closeness to humans in all senses.

David Bouchard's vivid poetry and Ron Parker's wonderful artwork breathe life into this endearing menagerie, reminding us of how precious our wildlife is. Together, artist and poet have created a heartfelt portrayal of the age-old relationship between humans and animals, one that young and old alike will remember and cherish.