Narwhals

"As one of the first general-interest books for adults dedicated to the narwhal, it's an important first start. Full of science, story, and some amazing images, Narwhals introduces us to the 'sea unicorn's' world."

"Anthropology, conservation, biology and local cultural and economic considerations blend effortlessly in this account. Ultimately the reader comes away with a profound awareness of the complications involved in maintaining in perpetuity a long lived species whose behavioral and ecological circumstances ironically leave it vulnerable to anthropogenic perturbations."

"His expertise shines in this pithy, entertaining book, which concludes with a sober assessment of the future for this species, one of only three truly Arctic cetaceans, in a warming world."

"Part of the book's strength lies in how McLeish captures the vivid sensory world of the Arctic."

"Todd McLeish goes deep into the narwhal— from its mythology to its biology."

"McLeish provides a broad view of the narwhal's history and legend, remaining awestruck and deeply concerned for a species that remains a miraculous creation."

"[The book] is a personal account of the latest scientific findings on narwhals and on ways the Arctic environment is changing. . . . [it] feels like a privilege to see one’s favorite study animal portrayed as it has been here in a well-written popular book for a broad audience."

"Based on interviews with researchers and his own research, McLeish weaves a compelling story about narwhals and the impact of the changing climate on their survival. . . . This book is a great read for general audiences and students as well as scientists interested in narwhals."

"Narwhals is reminiscent of many geographers’ first field experiences: journeys of discovery, both about the subject matter and about ourselves. . . . A lighter, more feel-good book about the joy, wonder, and Type II fun of a true research-based adventure."

"Narwhals is more than a 'whale of a tale' that lovers of the sea will enjoy reading. It also gives the reader a firsthand glimpse into the lives of Arctic dwellers as they struggle to survive in a changing world."

"Todd McLeish takes us far in several dimensions—across space, through time, and into the interiors of the human mental landscape—to paint a vivid and eloquent portrait of an animal seldom seen, wrongly imagined, and too often mistreated. This is one of those rare books that lifts you up and takes you in."