Romeo was fully wild, but social. He often mingled with Juneau dogs. (David Wilson photo)

Romeo was fully wild, but social. He often mingled with Juneau dogs. (David Wilson photo)

His name was Romeo, and his story is almost as tragic as his Shakespearian namesake’s.

Author Nick Jans has just published A Wolf Called Romeo about the black wolf which captivated Juneau residents for seven winters, before being illegally taken by a hunter in 2009.

Jans is the author of several books, and a contributing editor of Alaska Magazine. He’s been working in the state since 1979, when he traveled here with the intention of becoming a large-mammal biologist.

Jans spoke with KCAW’s Robert Woolsey about what he calls the “most transformative experience” of his life.

Nick Jans will be in Sitka this Sunday (7-20-14) signing his new book at Old Harbor books beginning at 11 AM. He’ll read selections beginning at 2 PM.