"Night of the Howling Dogs" is a young adult novel written by Graham Salisbury. It was first published in 2007 and is inspired by a true event: the 1975 eruption of the Mauna Loa volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The story follows a group of Boy Scouts who are on a camping trip in Hawaii's Waipio Valley when the volcano erupts. The Scouts, along with their leaders, find themselves in a life-threatening situation as they struggle to survive the chaos caused by the eruption. The title "Night of the Howling Dogs" refers to the eerie and unsettling sounds of the dogs howling in response to the natural disaster.
The novel explores themes of courage, resilience, teamwork, and the power of nature. As the characters face challenges such as ash clouds, dangerous terrain, and limited supplies, they must work together and find their inner strength to overcome the odds. The story is not only an adventure tale but also a coming-of-age narrative, as the Scouts learn important life lessons during their ordeal.
Graham Salisbury is known for his ability to capture the Hawaiian landscape and culture in his writing. "Night of the Howling Dogs" provides readers with a vivid sense of the natural beauty and potential dangers of the Hawaiian environment. The novel also offers insights into the characters' personal growth as they confront their fears and make life-altering decisions in the face of adversity.