Raven's Witness

The Alaska Life of Richard K. Nelson

By: Hank Lentfer, Barry Lopez - foreword

Narrated by: Basil Sands

Before his death in 2019, cultural anthropologist, author, and radio producer Richard K. Nelson's work focused primarily on the indigenous cultures of Alaska and, more generally, on the relationships between people and nature. Nelson lived for extended periods in Athabaskan and Alaskan Eskimo villages, experiences which inspired his earliest written works, including Hunters of the Northern Ice.

In Raven's Witness, Lentfer tells Nelson's story - from his midwestern childhood to his first experiences with Native culture in Alaska through his own lifelong passion for the land where he so belonged. Nelson was the author of the best-selling The Island Within and Heart and Blood. The recipient of multiple honorary degrees and numerous literary awards, he regularly packed auditoriums when he spoke. His depth of experience allowed him to become an intermediary between worlds. This is his story.

©2020 Hank Lentfer (P)2020 Tantor

A beautiful witness of life!

I will look, listen, smell, feel, and taste the world around me more carefully now as I pass this life at my home in the mountains of Wyoming.

A most memorable account of a human being!
Bravo.

Listening to true nature

Richard’s life was so full of natural joy in his way of listening to humans & nature. I hope our future generations will experience this same joy.

thoughtful and thought provoking

I found this story inspiring. it was an honest look at challenges of change and our cosmic position in these crazy times. I might even look for some of Richards books!

Really enjoyed this book

Great read! Listened to it twice. Glad you chose to write this book. It was a good find.

Selfless & Introspective

Amazing man. I wish everyone could be this selfless and introspective. His care for the world around him should be taught in the schools.