Why We Need to Be Wild

One Woman's Quest for Ancient Human Answers to 21st Century Problems

By: Jessica Carew Kraft

Narrated by: Jessica Carew Kraft

A bold examination of how Paleolithic wisdom could solve our 21st century problems

Jessica Carew Kraft, an urban wife and mom of two, was firmly rooted in the modern world, complete with a high-powered career in tech and the sneaking suspicion that her lifestyle was preventing her and her family from truly thriving. Determined to find a better way, Jessica quit her job and set out to learn about "rewilding" from people who reject the comforts and convenience of civilization by using ancient tools and skills to survive. Along the way, she learned how to turn sticks into fire, stones into axes, and bones into tools for harvesting wild food—and found an entire community walking the path back from our technology-focused, anxiety-ridden way of life to a simpler, more human experience.

Weaving deep research and reportage with her own personal journey, Jessica tells the remarkable story of the potential benefits rewilding has for us and our planet, and questions what it truly means to be a human in today's world. For fans of A Hunter-Gatherer's Guide to the 21st Century and Hunt, Gather, Parent, Why We Need to Be Wild is a thought-provoking, unforgettable narrative that illuminates how we survived in the past, how we live now, and how each of us can choose to thrive in the years ahead.

©2023 Jessica Carew Kraft (P)2023 Recorded Books

An average anarchist

At parts this was entertaining but for the most part it’s just another leftist that has a hard time saving/investing so they call anything other than spending their (and others’) money “hoarding of resources”, then blames every problem on earth to this. It’s lazy, and for a self proclaimed anarchist even lazier.

Rediscovering Our Wild: How Ancient Wisdom Can Heal Modern Lives

Jessica Carew Kraft’s Why We Need to Be Wild is an inspiring and thought-provoking work that blends personal narrative, immersive journalism, and anthropology to advocate for a return to our primal roots. With a successful tech career and a modern urban life, Kraft felt increasingly disconnected and yearned for a more authentic way of being. She sets out on a transformative journey, learning skills like fire-making and foraging from rewilding communities who embrace Paleolithic wisdom, ultimately finding deeper truths about human nature and resilience.

Kraft’s writing is compelling, pulling readers into her experiences as she questions the price of civilization’s comforts. She challenges our assumptions about progress, suggesting that reclaiming lost ancestral practices might not only be vital for personal health but could also help address larger ecological and societal crises. With echoes of Braiding Sweetgrass and Hunt, Gather, Parent, Kraft’s book urges readers to embrace the wisdom of our ancestors as a remedy for 21st-century challenges.

A deeply human exploration, Why We Need to Be Wild invites us to reconsider what it means to thrive. It isn’t about abandoning technology or romanticizing the past—it’s about reclaiming our capacity for self-reliance, resilience, and harmony with the natural world. Rich in research and poignant reflections, Kraft’s journey serves as a guide for anyone seeking a wilder, more grounded existence amidst the chaos of modern

I loved this book!

This book has so much in it — a grand wilderness adventure and midlife-crisis, family dynamics, ecology, history, archaeology and most importantly lots of anthropology. Jessica makes the point that the public needs to know and understand where humans came from, how we evolved, and how we have deviated from our evolutionary path if we are to feel at home on this planet and stop destroying it. A great read that made me want to book a camping trip right away.

Embrace Your Wild Side: A 5-Star Journey

"Why We Need to Be Wild" by Jessica Carew Kraft is a true masterpiece that deserves every bit of its 5-star rating. Drawing inspiration from nature, anthropology, and the wisdom of those who've chosen a wilder path, this book is nothing short of a revelation.

Kraft's exploration of our disconnect from our primal roots is both eye-opening and inspiring. In a world dominated by screens and conveniences, she reminds us that we've become as domesticated as house pets. But instead of lamenting this fact, Kraft embraces it as a call to action. She embarks on an adventure, spending time with individuals who have boldly chosen to live closer to nature, and in doing so, she uncovers a tapestry of inspirational stories.

From Alaskan hunters wielding primitive bows to the wisdom of foraging for food in the wilderness, the book introduces us to a cast of characters who redefine what it means to be human in the 21st century. Kraft's storytelling is not just informative but deeply engaging, weaving in elements of wilderness, family dynamics, and personal transformation.

As you dive into these pages, you'll find yourself contemplating the state of our modern world and its deviations from our evolutionary path. Kraft's compelling narrative urges us to rediscover our connection to nature, embrace face-to-face interactions, and reclaim our inner wildness. It's a wake-up call that invites us to live in harmony with the Earth's living creatures once more.

Moreover, Jessica Carew Kraft's own transformation journey adds a personal touch to the book. Her courageous rejection of a suburban, consumer-driven life in favor of a more primal existence in the woods resonates with anyone yearning for a deeper, more authentic connection with the world around them.

In a world where we're often wrapped in the comforts of convenience, "Why We Need to Be Wild" challenges us to rediscover our true essence as humans. It's a thought-provoking and motivational read that has the power to inspire positive changes in the lives of its readers. If you're seeking answers to why our society is at odds with its own nature, this book will provide the enlightening insights you've been searching for. Enjoy the journey it takes you on!

Wim Hof liked it!

If you look at the endorsements for this book, you’ll see that there are some really top writers and thinkers who have given it the thumbs up, so who am I to criticize? Wim Hof, the legendary Ice Man, even read it and it seems to be aligned with what he teaches in terms of taking back control of your own health, happiness, and destiny. The author had a big realization that everyone today living in our society is basically as capable in the wild as a domesticated dog. We’re not the wolves we once used to be. While some see this as a benefit to humankind, because we’re numbed out on our phones and keep turning to addictive substances all day: coffee, alcohol, nicotine, social media, and we have all the benefits of modern transportation, technology, and medicine, Kraft sees this all as a huge detriment. She goes and spends time with people who reject all that, finding that they are inspirational and also — badass! I was also inspired when I read about people like Jaime, an Alaskan hunter-gatherer who goes out an hunts moose with a primitive bow. There are a ton of other characters doing similarly heroic feats in this well-written and thoroughly researched book. If you are looking for answers for why society is so messed up, this book will give them to you. Enjoy.

Incredible book

I was enthralled by Jessica Carew Kraft’s personal look at her experience and discovery of the world of re-wilders. I enjoyed hearing her narration as well; so clear and with a friendly tone (even at 1.25 speed 😂). I highly recommend this book to anyone curious about what life would be like if we could step away from our tech-crazed lives, even for just a little bit. Live vicariously through this author when you give this book a listen today!

Medicine for Humanity: A Transformative Lifestyle

Kraft's narrative invites readers into a compelling exploration seen through the unique and complex perspective of a contemporary career woman, a mother, a wife, and an anthropologist. It recounts Kraft's experiences as she immerses in the world of "rewilders" and partakes in the ancient tradition of gathering sustenance from the natural world.

She eloquently illustrates the mutual benefits that humans, the planet and its wildlife can reap from this shared endeavor. Combining humanistic insight and humor, Kraft delivers an engaging read with valuable takeaways that could benefit all Earth’s inhabitants.

Engaging and Enlightening

This book offers insight into living healthier and happier and more meaningful lives. It gives theories and examples of new (old) knowledge that allowed humans to thrive for millennia without damaging other humans and other species. And it is also a set of portraits of noteworthy leaders and engaging controversies in the rewilding movements of the past half century. But above all, the book is a generous, compelling story of one person confronting difficult societal expectations and finding redemption in the people she encounters, the land she forages and replenishes, and the ancient skills that all humans knew once upon a time.

Great for the most part.

I liked the book but at times did not like subjects spoken of. would have been better had it not went off subject.

Fascinating, thought provoking, and full of heart—a must read!

A beautifully written, thought provoking, and well researched book offering an alternative viewpoint to many of our modern issues. I loved following her exploration into a wilder way of life and would recommend this book to anyone looking to live a more fulfilling and beautiful existence. She also shares many wonderful resources.