Jim Rearden

Alaska's wolves are the main characters in this historically and biologically accurate recounting. Included are vivid anecdotes about wolves, with descriptions of their behavior and way of life, examples of their intelligence, expressions of appreciation for their charm and beauty, as well as an honest look at their savage efficiency as predators and relationship to urban and rural Alaskans.

Backed by Wien Airlines, former Navy combat pilot "Andy" Anderson pioneered post-war bush service to Alaska's Koyukuk River region, serving miners, Natives, sportsmen, geologists, adventurers, and assorted bush rats. Besides passengers, he hauled everything needed for bush life, plus mining equipment and gold. Unusual freight included live wolves and sled dogs. After one husky panicked on take-off, thrashing about between him and the controls, he learned to tie the dogs. He sweated out dozens of hazardous medivac flights, "always at night in terrible storms." Crammed with adventures and misadventures and generously illustrated, this is a must-read for aviation and history buffs.