“Chasing Shadows: My Life Tracking the Great White Shark” by Dr. Greg Skomal is a journey into the mysterious world of the ocean’s most iconic predator. Reading this book feels like you’re right there on the bow of the boat, salt spray in your face on one of the many research trips detailed on its pages.
From the first page, it’s clear that Skomal is more than a top-tier researcher. Despite his vast contributions to shark conservation, he’s still a fan at heart—still fascinated by the great white shark. This passion threads through the book, giving it a pulse that beats with every encounter and discovery.
He discusses early inspiration by Jacques Cousteau and even wearing a red beanie like the iconic ocean explorer in his youth. He also touches on the influence of the fictional character Matt Hooper from Jaws serving as a major influence.
Skomal’s early days dissecting dead sharks and spending hard days on research vessels in the ocean are detailed. It was interesting to see the evolution of great white sharks being looked at by the media and much of the public as the greatest threat in the ocean to a truly amazing creature worthy of study and admiration.
The book takes you through the time of fishermen harpooning great whites, to the prohibition of harvest that occurred in 1997 to now when it seems like populations are on the upswing.
But it’s the moments he describes seeing living great white that the book truly goes to another level. It’s as if he’s pulled you into the water with him, sharing those moment of awe, discovery and inspiration.
Skomal doesn’t just chase shadows; he chases understanding. One of the book’s highlights for me is the development of non-invasive methods for tagging great whites. This innovative approach has become foundational in the Cape Cod area, transforming how we study these animals. Tagging isn’t just a technical feat as it helps unfold the secret lives of white sharks as they roam the Atlantic and even into the Gulf of Mexico.
The book also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the formation of the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy. It’s a story born out of necessity—the pressing need for more research to ensure these ancient mariners don’t slip away into the depths for good. Through Skomal’s eyes, we witness the intersection of science, advocacy, and sheer determination.
“Chasing Shadows” captures the essence of what draws us to these animals, blending scientific inquiry with the thrill of being in the presence of these great animals.
I found it fitting, that someone influenced by Matt Hooper from Jaws ended the book with a quote from Peter Benchley on great whites.
“She only obeys her own instincts.”
And I guess that one reason we find sharks so fascinating. They have no political agendas and create no self-serving schemes. They live a pure life of survival in a harsh environment.
As a lifelong lover of sharks and someone who has written extensively on them, I am grateful for researchers like Dr. Skomal who have opened up their world to us through a lot of blood, sweat and tears in the field.
And most importantly, I am grateful for the advancement of shark conservation that is shown in a powerful way on these pages.
If you love sharks, especially great whites, this is a must read.
It’s an informative, fun and honest look at the world of the white shark and those who study them.
To order the book on Amazon click here.
Chester Moore
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