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cover of episode In 'Beartooth,' brothers embark on an illicit journey into Yellowstone National Park

In 'Beartooth,' brothers embark on an illicit journey into Yellowstone National Park

2025/3/27
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Callan Wink discusses the inspiration behind his novel 'Beartooth,' which follows two brothers in financial desperation who engage in illegal elk antler collection in Yellowstone National Park.
  • The novel was inspired by a story Wink heard at a bar.
  • The brothers' journey is rooted in financial desperation following their father's death.
  • Wink wanted to capture the real West, beyond its romanticized image.

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In Callan Wink's new novel Beartooth, two brothers live at the edge of Yellowstone National Park. Their father has recently died of cancer, leaving behind unpaid medical bills and taxes. Desperate to save their home, the pair ventures into the park as part of a scheme involving the illegal collection of elk antlers. The novel, Wink says, was inspired by a similar story he heard at a bar. In today's episode, Wink talks with Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd about the experience of living near Yellowstone, the impact of financial desperation on ethics, and the author's decision to write about brothers.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)