The Wolves Return

In 1995–96 twenty-three Canadian gray wolves were released in Yellowstone National Park where, due to over-hunting, there had been no wolves at all for almost seventy years. The wolves were introduced to help thin out the large elk population which, without one of its key predators, was threatening to outgrow the park’s natural resources. This reintroduction project was an overwhelming success, and the very next year another ten wolves were welcomed to Yellowstone. Over twenty years later we can still see the changes the gray wolves brought to Yellowstone National Park. Now that the elk graze higher ground, seedlings are growing tall, rivers are getting deeper as beavers return, and a lively pond ecosystem is developing. This true story offers an important lesson about the difference one creature can make in creating a healthy, thriving world.Acclaimed environmental author and illustrator Celia Godkin delivers an inspiring, feel-good environmental story that is the perfect follow up to her most recent nonfiction picture book, Skydiver: Saving the Fastest Bird in the World, a Bank Street Best Book that was also shortlisted for several awards. The Wolves Return features Godkin’s evocative, full-spread pencil crayon and watercolour illustrations and is further enhanced by extensive information on the Yellowstone Wolf Project, including maps and statistics that will delight young animal lovers and inquisitive minds.