ISBN 1-930580-70-3

Available wherever fine books are sold, or 
Purchase directly from Pine Orchard.

Wholesale distribution from Ingram, Baker & Taylor, Books West, and Partners West.

Shop in Eugene at Tsunami Books, Past and Presents at the U. O. Museum of Natural and Cultural History, and Emerald City News & Gifts at Eugene Airport.

The Otter Spirit © 2004 Judith K. Berg.
Illustrations © 2004 Michael Reed.
Photographs by the Author.
Book and Cover Design by Matt Gravelle.
Published April, 2005 by 

an imprint of
Pine Orchard, Inc.

Printed with soy ink on 100% recycled
post-consumer fiber, 
processed chlorine-free.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book will be used for the preservation of fresh water habitat.

The Otter Spirit
A Natural History Story

Featured Titles in Spirituality

“It has been my pleasure to read The Otter Spirit and become enlightened concerning so many of the animals that have been a part of my environment from my youth. The Otter Spirit provides smooth and easy reading. The book is a paradox to some degree because it contains substantial information about the habits of various animals, but maintains a healthy distance from the scientific vocabulary that could easily slow down its delivery. Senses are certainly stirred in the descriptions of the Rocky Mountain seasons and their effect on the otter family, as well as a variety of other high country flora and fauna. Flowing through the seasons, as the story does, also provides that necessary feeling of the passage of time equating to endless. The paradox of seasons coming and going no matter what man or beast may do is essential to the impression that we are both subject to their control. Tying together the North American mammals with ancient forefathers and those that are living in other lands today is a valuable method of describing Nature that is particularly beneficial and that the reader will learn from.”

—Renny Rapier, Writer and Editor

"A riveting story that blends researched facts, interpretive photographs and illustrations, descriptive poems, Native American folklore, firsthand observations and personal narration—a blend that elevates this natural history to a class of its own. Its sensitivity to Nature carries the spirituality well. I feel as if I'm in a cathedral - sanctity and awe are created by Judy's words. Blending Nature, research, and the Otter Spirit as one is a complex task to capture and simplify - and Judy pulled it off."

—Carolyn Gravelle, Ph.D., Publisher, Editor, Educator

"A wonderful job describing the natural history of the North American River Otter in an informative and entertaining story. Vivid and alive characterization of otters, their biology, their habitat, and their behavior paint clear images that take the reader into the field. Family relations, interactions with other wildlife, clear descriptions of the change in seasons, and the link to Native American folklore all contribute to a rich and interesting story. The poems, illustrations, and photos all add valuable dimensions to the book."

 —Dan Salzer, The Nature Conservancy

"The text is much deeper than what the cover portrays. [Unlike many] writers who start a book with something mundane, the first three paragraphs are beautifully and poetically written. I love the idea of merging two journeys - the physical one with Nature and tracking the otters - with the spiritual one, which involves the communing with Nature that Native Americans cherish. The book has a sense of completion to it [by tying together] the medicine woman's appearance at the beginning and end of the book."

—Judge 49, Writers Digest 2007 Self-Published Book Awards

"The Otter Spirit will entertain you with facts and fun relating to the playful spirit of a serious wildlife researcher's adventures in the wilds. Berg's original poetry sprinkled throughout the book distills Nature's cycles into an essence of life's personal and universal journeys. The Otter Spirit opens pathways to our own explorations within ourselves and Nature."

—Meredith McPherson, Artist

"Appreciation for this sacred earth, from being out exposed to Nature, shows in every line."

—Mark Andrew, Sculptor

"[Judy] has generously shared her scientific findings and her personal observations with us. What a fun way to become educated! I admire Judy’s stamina, (how many of us would be hardy enough to endure winter in the Colorado Rockies?) and her willingness to share her totem animal experiences."

—Brooke Stone, Animal Totem Artist

"This story hit a spot in my heart. You have such wonderful insight into Native American cultures."

 —Wilma Crowe, Elder of the Lakota Nation

"Reading The Otter Spirit was a vivid experience. Yours is a story a reader doesn’t want to end. You tuned in beautifully to my visual and kinesthetic senses. You teach in a most gentle manner. Thank you for the gift of your book, for this fine creation you have made with your life. We are blessed."

 —Anne Summers, Journalist

"Judy is generous in sharing her valuable research about otters and their observed behaviors along the Colorado River."

—Jim Capps, Colorado River District Interpreter (Ret.)
Rocky Mountain National Park

"Congratulations on The Otter Spirit. What an inspiration to us all."

 —Sara Chieffo, The McKenzie River Trust  

"What a beautiful book, one of inspiration and education. Thank you."

 —Holly McRae
Willamette Resources Education Network

"The Otter Spirit opened my eyes to the wonders of Mother Nature's world. A classy and professionally written book, which entertains as well as educates."

—David Galfond, Writer