Siwiti: A Whale's Story

Donavon L. Porter is a public-school teacher in Haileybury, Ontario.

This book, the story of a killer whale’s first year of life, is richly
illustrated with photographs of an actual whale pod that lives off
Canada’s west coast. The author has spent many years studying orca
whales and has based this story on the results of that work. The
photography is of the highest calibre and is a testament to what were
undoubtedly many hours of patient observation. This is, however, much
more than a book of photographs. The story of the young whale’s first
year is told in an entertaining but factual manner. Proper scientific
terminology is employed, but in a context that will be meaningful to the
younger reader. The combination of photographs and an engaging story
line results in a book that provides a wealth of detailed information.
Having read this story, one is likely to feel some empathy with the
orcas and to have a greater respect for this breed. This book should be
a welcome addition to any young naturalist’s library.