This is more like a memoir of Pyenson's life as a researcher than it is about whales. Every time I would get into a story and want to know more about the whales and the research he was on to the next trip or topic. It does touch on some of the research of past and present whales and what the future may look like for some. But it does so in more of a conversational tone. This would be a great intro to whales or someone who is only passingly curious. Overall it was entertaining, Pyenson has led an adventurous life, but it wasn't what I expected based on the title.

3.5