In this compelling blend of natural history, scientific research, cultural exploration, and environmental reporting, award-winning journalist David Neiwert examines the remarkable world of killer whales and the evolving relationship between orcas and humans. “Powerful and beautifully written.” —Jane Goodall
Drawing on extensive research and firsthand reporting, Of Orcas and Men explores the intelligence, social lives, and emotional complexity of orcas while confronting difficult questions about captivity, environmental stewardship, and humanity's responsibility to the natural world.
Both an engaging work of narrative nonfiction and a passionate call for conservation, this acclaimed book offers a deeper understanding of one of the ocean's most iconic species and what their story can teach us about empathy, coexistence, and survival.
Perfect for readers of Barry Lopez, Sy Montgomery, and other leading nature writers, Of Orcas and Men blends science, history, and environmental reporting into an unforgettable portrait of the killer whale.
Orcas are among the most intelligent and socially complex animals on Earth. They possess distinct cultures, sophisticated communication systems, remarkable memories, and powerful family bonds. Yet despite our fascination with these extraordinary creatures, human activity has repeatedly placed them in danger.
From Indigenous traditions and marine science to the captive-orca industry and conservation efforts in the Pacific Northwest, Neiwert reveals how these animals have captured our imaginations and why their future remains deeply intertwined with our own.