Michael W. Fox

Lovely little book about the family life of wolves. Part of it is story, following one pup from birth to adulthood as it learns life skills, how to stay safe, hunting with the pack etc- all the usual stuff. Interjected are explanations about wolf behavior and ecology, so it's very educational as well. The little wolves grow and play, although one dies young from a disease. This book has a lot more about their intimate social lives- showing how the interactions form their bonds and organize their place in the pack. The young wolves encounter threats from a bald eagle, a wolverine and porcupine. They learn to catch mice and grasshoppers on their own, and are schooled in hunting caribou by their parents. I thought for once this would be a story just about the (relatively) peaceful lives of the animals, but man does make an appearance at the end- the wolf pack is hounded by hunters using airplanes. Some are shot and left to die. The ending is a plea for wolves to be protected, pointing out their role in keeping populations of caribou and other prey animals healthy, and a little bit about conservation work. Of course the book is dated- it hopes for example that wolves will someday be re-introduced to Yellowstone (which has now occurred). The illustrations by Charles Fracé are very nice.

more at the Dogear Diary… (meer)

Eating With Conscience
The Bioethics of Food
by Dr. Michael W. Fox

I found this 192 page book about biotechnology to be very informative and quite intriguing. It addresses topics that us as consumers especially of meat products need to pay close attention too. I have always believed that forewarned is forearmed so I just couldn't let the opportunity to learn more about how my food is obtained, processed and packaged slip by.

Half way through examining this highly investigative and completely eye-opening read I started to get in touch with the sadness I have felt, but didn't know why. This honest expose will not be for everyone, but for those who decide they have a desire and the courage to know the truth, this illuminating escort will not disappoint you. Thank You Michael, for letting us see the consequences of our actions.

Love & Light,

Riki Frahmann… (meer)