Jake’s father has regaled him with stories about the wolf who lives on the mountain—even though wolves are said to be extinct in this part of the world. Jake wants to know if the wolf is real or merely a figment of his father’s fine imagination. His neighbor, Lucy, joins him on a hike to Sheldon Mountain in search of this enigmatic creature. Jake seeks the truth. Lucy desires freedom from her abusive father. When an accident thwarts their plans, the two teens find themselves on a journey of self-discovery and love. This appealing novel is sensitively written in fluid, free verse. Themes and genre are meaningful for young teens. 2008 USBBY Outstanding International Books List. nrr

Originally published as Lonesome Howl by Allen & Unwin Australia, in 2006.

Jake and Lucy hike to Sheldon Mountain: Jake to prove his dad right or wrong about the wolf he claims he saw; Lucy to escape her father's cruelty. Jake's dad saw the wolf before Jake was born. They say wolves don't live in this country, yet in the night Jake hears it howling, long and lonely. During the hike, both are tested--physically, emotionally, spiritually--but what they find on that dangerous, dark mountain surprises them both. A novel written in verse, thisVoice of Youth Advocates Poetry Pick is taut and tender, a gripping blend of physical adventure, family drama, love story, and journey of self-discovery.