The Last Ranger (by Peter Heller)
Peter Heller, an auto buy author for me, because he captivates me with his beautiful and sophisticated writing style. His stories, set in breathtaking and rugged landscapes, often feature animals as central characters.
The Last Ranger, set in the magnificent Yellowstone National Park, follows Ren, a park ranger, as he navigates his daily responsibilities. From answering tourists’ questions and directing traffic to intervening in campground disputes and saving tourists from moose attacks, Ren’s job is never dull. He resides in a modest cabin in the meadow, next to his neighbor and closest friend, Hilly, a biologist and wolf expert. One day, Ren discovers Hilly trapped in a wolf trap, knowing it wasn’t an accident. Fueled by determination, Ren investigates and uncovers a local poacher and a group of individuals intent on disrupting the park’s laws.
The story seemed to take various turns, but everything was purposeful and connected. For example, Ren’s personal history was scattered throughout the novel. The reader learns the events that led Ren to become a park ranger. Heller also took us back to Ren’s childhood to understand how he became the man he is in the story. It’s a painfully beautiful story that Ren continues to grapple with. Then, there’s Hilly and her dedicated wolf studies. Included are local residents and fellow park rangers that Ren interacts with. Not to mention the wolf poacher and the terrorist threat group. There’s a lot of activity in this story that kept me turning the pages. I always hated to set it down.
Heller, not only possesses the remarkable ability to weave fascinating stories about the human condition, but his extensive knowledge about animals also reveals their amazing personalities and striking similarities to human struggles. He deeply understands the significance of animals. I particularly admire how his characters in The Last Ranger gravitate toward solitude while simultaneously fulfilling their desire for selective human connection. What a beautiful balance these characters have created. Moreover, these characters are fiercely devoted and protective of the wild animals residing within the national park. The book’s enchanting setting, coupled with its endearing characters, both human and animal, creates an unforgettable reading experience.
While I own every book Heller has published so far, I still have two that I haven’t read yet. I’ve noticed that I tend to read his books during the summer. Since it’s early in the season, I hope I’ll be able to revisit another Heller novel soon.
You’re welcome to read my review of Peter Heller’s Celine, which is linked below.
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