Journey: Based on the True Story of Or7, the Most Famous Wolf in the West

Gr 1-3--This is the fictionalized account of OR7, the first wolf since 1924 to cross from Oregon into Northern California. The story opens as OR7 is heading into the unknown, leaving his pack and "the sweet-smelling forest of pines and firs [that] had always been home." Fast-forward about a year to a girl and her father having breakfast at the local diner. The topic of conversation among the ranchers centers on news reports that the wolf is heading their way. As Abby and her dad continue reading the article, they learn that biologists have been trying to reintroduce wolves into areas where there are not too many farms or roads. She is hopeful that the wolf will cross the border into California. Meanwhile, the wolf is wandering in the woods, not knowing that he has tripped a hidden motion-sensitive camera. It captures the world's first look at him. Abby is excited, but the locals worry that the wolf will harm their sheep or cows. The wolf continues his journey, now in search of a mate or a pack. Abby has been following his route on the Internet and learns that he has indeed crossed the border into California. Soon, a local radio station holds a contest to name the wolf, and Abby has the winning entry: Journey. The wolf, meanwhile, has formed a temporary pack with some coyotes but eventually meets a lone female wolf who is also on a solo journey. They become mates and soon have a small litter of pups in a wooded area "where there are not too many roads and not too many farms--just right for wolves." The final pages contain a time line of Journey's adventures, real photos taken by hidden cameras and biologists, and a one-page summary on "The Real Journey," who traveled some 2,000 miles in Oregon and California before settling near the Rogue River, just north of the California border. The illustrations are attractive and realistic in nature and rendered digitally. VERDICT An informative, well-written story useful for units on wolves or nature studies.--Roxanne Burg, Orange County Public Library, CA

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Winner of the 2017 Cook Prize for best picture book teaching STEM principles to third and fourth graders!

Finalist for the Washington State Book Award!

This accessible and engaging picture book is an empowering account of a conservation success story.
—Booklist

James' realistic, finely detailed paintings glory in every hair of the wolves' fur...environmental good news invitingly presented.
—Kirkus Reviews

The book aims to raise awareness about wolves, and a feeling of connection with their survival.
—Kirkus Reviews

"This is a fabulous book to help open up discussions with kids about conservation and wildlife."
—Outnumbered 3 to 1

"[Teaches] that it's possible even for kids to make a difference."
—Motherhood Moment

"Captivating and heartwarming...Animal lovers will howl with joy."
—Red Tricycle

"[A] marvelous story of determination, self-actualization, empathy, and sheer resolve in nature's ability to survive."
—Kid Lit Reviews

"[Journey] has enormous power."
—Librarian in Cute Shoes

"An extraordinary trek."
—Librarian's Quest

"Suggestions for further reading, maps, timelines and other resources are icing on this picture-book cake."
—Seattle's Child

"[A] compelling story."
—Washington Parent

"A must read for all."
—Psychology Today

"[An] inspirational and moving work of art."
—Huffington Post

"Absolutely beautiful."
—Picture Books Help Kids Soar

"[Will] inspire kids to keep reading and...to learn more about the natural world around them."
—Lu & Bean Read

"Young readers can follow the historic trek of a famous wild gray wolf."
—Alaska Airlines Magazine

"A beautiful picture book."
—A Novel Idea

In sharing the book with groups of readers, Smith said she is struck by how they react once they 'make the connection that Journey is real.'
—Publishers Weekly

A young girl follows the wolf's journey and, along the way, learns about issues around the re-introduction of wolves. It's an opportunity to engage young readers beyond the story.
—Herald Net