In the Company of Whales

Patrick Colgan is associate director of programs at the Canadian Museum
of Nature in Ottawa.

Icons of environmental concern and marine beauty, cetaceans are
appreciated for their grace, intelligence, social organization, and
splendid habitats. This book is a further addition to the growing
Canadian literature on these animals for readers of all ages. Subtitled
“From the Diary of a Whale Watcher,” the text consists of an
introduction, describing how the author came to study killer whales, and
four chapters with observations on the various activities of these
marine mammals. The intimate intensity of Morton’s affection for the
animals permeates her writing. General information on the biology of the
whales and related topics, such as other species, is provided in boxed
sidebars. There is a chart depicting dorsal fins and numerous excellent
photographs. Although Morton is the author of a previous, award-winning
book for children, it is doubtful that the intended audience of 6- to
12-year-olds will appreciate this book’s diary format. Recommended
with reservations.