Paulsen, Gary. This Side of Wild. 3 CDs. 3 hrs. S. & S. Audio. 2015. $14.99. ISBN 9781442389618.

Gr 5-8 –In this memoir, Paulsen shares anecdotes about the ways dogs, horses, birds, and other creatures have touched and shaped his life. Listeners are introduced to dogs such as Corky, a toy poodle whose unfailing instinct protects Paulsen from grizzly bear attacks; Josh, a horseback-riding border collie; and Gretchen, a coffee-drinking dog with an uncanny ability to converse with humans via head nods. Paulsen also describes encounters with wild animals such as moose, coyotes, bees, ravens, and rattlesnakes. Throughout, Paulsen considers the ways animals have taught him to be a better person. His reflections about how minor mankind’s presence is in the greater scope of life will resonate with animal lovers, and they will be drawn in by his natural storytelling abilities. Narrator Fred Sanders expertly voices this production, making listeners feel like they are actually out in the Alaskan bush or barren desert experiencing these animal encounters for themselves. VERDICT This memorable production will resonate with anyone who has ever sensed that animals may be more perceptive, more intelligent, and more loyal than humans typically give them credit for. [“A delightful compilation of insightful and entertaining tales of animal wisdom”: SLJ 10/15 review of the S. & S. book.]–Anne Bozievich, Friendship Elementary School, Glen Rock, PA

This review was published in the School Library Journal December 2015 issue.