The Voice of the Pack   By: Edison Marshall (1894-1967)

The Voice of the Pack by Edison Marshall is a captivating journey through the untamed wilderness and the complex dynamics of a wolf pack. Marshall's vivid descriptions breathe life into the wild landscapes, allowing readers to feel the chill of the icy tundra or the warmth of a summer meadow.

At the heart of the story is a young man named Jim Wales, who finds himself torn between two worlds: that of his civilized upbringing and the alluring call of the wild. As he embarks on a mission to study the behavior of a wolf pack in Alaska, Jim's initial curiosity gradually transforms into a deep respect and understanding for these majestic creatures.

Marshall masterfully delves into the intricate social structure of the wolf pack, presenting the readers with a fascinating portrait of their hierarchy and the crucial role each member plays. Through his keen observations, the author sheds light on the pack's unwavering loyalty, unwritten laws, and even their capacity for compassion.

It is also worth mentioning that Marshall's characterization is exceptional. By flawlessly intertwining the lives of both the human and animal characters, he creates an emotional connection that tugs at the reader's heartstrings. Jim's transformation from an ambitious young man to a humble observer of nature is beautifully portrayed, making his journey all the more gripping.

One of the book's strongest aspects is the underlying theme of man's relationship with nature. Marshall skillfully highlights the devastating impact of human encroachment on the wildlife habitat, urging readers to reflect on the consequences of our actions. This thought-provoking element adds depth to an already engrossing narrative, offering readers an opportunity for introspection.

While the story unfolds at a steady pace, there are moments when the descriptive passages tend to overshadow the plot. Some readers may find these sections too lengthy, though I believe they contribute to the overall atmospheric quality of the novel.

In conclusion, The Voice of the Pack is a mesmerizing tale that transports readers into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. Edison Marshall's powerful prose and deep understanding of nature make this novel an absolute must-read for both nature enthusiasts and those seeking a thought-provoking exploration of man's connection to the wild.

First Page:

Long ago, when the great city of Gitcheapolis was a rather small, untidy hamlet in the middle of a plain, it used to be that a pool of water, possibly two hundred feet square, gathered every spring immediately back of the courthouse. The snow falls thick and heavy in Gitcheapolis in winter; and the pond was nothing more than snow water that the inefficient drainage system of the city did not quite absorb. Now snow water is occasionally the most limpid, melted crystal thing in the world. There are places just two thousand miles west of Gitcheapolis where you can see it pouring pure and fresh off of the snow fields, scouring out a ravine from the great rock wall of a mountain side, leaping faster than a deer leaps and when you speak of the speed of a descending deer you speak of something the usual mortal eye can scarcely follow from cataract to cataract; and the sight is always a pleasing one to behold... Continue reading book >>