John Vaillant’s The Tiger recounts the true story of a man-eating Siberian tiger in Russia’s rugged Far East, but the book is far more than a wildlife narrative. Through a gripping tale of pursuit and survival, Vaillant explores the complex relationship between humans and predators, the ecological importance of wilderness, and the unique culture and geography of the Russian taiga. While reading the book during this five-week class, we will examine themes of conservation, fear, coexistence, and the enduring power of the natural world.

Format: This is essentially a book-discussion group held over lunch at the Providence Art Club. While no formal presentations are expected, class members will be asked to lead weekly discussions about assigned aspects of the book.

Resources/Expenses: The Tiger: A True Story of Vengeance and Survival by John Vaillant is available in local libraries and online in paperback for $17 and as an e-book. Members will be expected to pay for their weekly meals using a credit card.

Coordinators: Nick Miles and Dave Evans have co-coordinated two similarly structured courses—one last fall about wildfires and how they relate to climate change, and another about the Great Hurricane of 1938. Since joining LLC 12 years ago, Nick has coordinated or co-coordinated more than a dozen courses in theatre conversations, ekphrastic poetry, humor, and cities, among others. A newer member of LLC, Dave Evans taught science in Providence Public High Schools for 30 years before retiring.