The Ravenmaster, by Christopher Skaife, is part guidebook, part history, part memoir, and completely engaging. The author, a Yeoman Warder of the Tower of London, also holds the title of Ravenmaster. Skaife is the caretaker, wrangler, and advocate for the seven ravens currently in residence at the notorious Tower. His role as Yeoman Warder includes that of tour guide, and his book beckons the reader to follow him through a day of caring for the ravens.

As he details his role in the lives of the sly, mischievous creatures who legendarily keep the kingdom from ruin, Skaife gives a brief overview of the history of the Tower of London and a glimpse into the unique community of people who live and work there today. But the heft of the tale is dedicated to the ravens, individual, complex, and nuanced. These are not tame pets, and Skaife’s respect for these ferociously intelligent creatures and dedication to maintaining the tenuous balance of freedom is evident in his enthusiasm and dedication as the Ravenmaster.

This is no dry, drab piece of nonfiction. The writing is insightful and educational, and Skaife’s stories of his time with the ravens are in turns humorous and poignant. Conversational in tone, The Ravenmaster is both a brilliant piece of storytelling that provides intimate insight into one man’s passion for his work and a poetic ode to an incredible creature, the raven.

Highly recommended for fans of unique memoirs revolving around history and ornithology.