Living with the Wolfman

Living with the Wolfman is unique among wildlife series. Not only do Shaun and Helen study these animals who, despite being bred in captivity, certainly aren't domesticated, but they also actually attempt to coexist with them on the wolves' terms. They're not objective observers, but there's no desire to train the animals; instead, Shaun uses the knowledge he's gleaned from being part of the pack to train Helen to think and act like a wolf. They put the animals in a position of power and adapt every aspect of their lifestyle to suit them.

The show's only real flaw (aside from perhaps giving kids some romanticized notions about wolves) is that it sometimes seems to lack direction, transitioning rather awkwardly between stories of Shaun and Helen's relationship and content about the animals. That aside, families will be inspired by the depth of Shaun and Helen's affection for their furry family members and will gain a new respect for these animals and the intricacies of pack society. It's most appropriate for tweens and up; younger kids will likely be confused and/or frightened by some of the behavior they see from animals and humans alike.