Song of the Pack

"Song of the Pack" is a contemporary YA novel in two parts. This fast-paced, psychological drama is told from the perspectives of an almost wild wolf/dog and an alienated, incarcerated youth. They gain knowledge and resiliency together through their relationship, and their bond becomes a powerful agent of growth and defense against the vagaries of life. All proceeds go to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

Book 1 of this two-part series focuses on Dan and Mystery. Alienated from the community and his single mother, seventeen-year-old Dan Langton hopes and expects to be released from prison soon. At his Parole Board Hearing, prison officials tell the young man to complete a community service program. After intense resistance, Dan agrees to work with the newly instituted prison dog program, which trains and rehabilitates rescue dogs. Dan is assigned to Mystery, wolf-German Shepherd hybrid who shies away from human contact and repeatedly tries to run away. As he wins her affection, her love of freedom begins to infect and heal him. When corrupt officials try to pressure Dan into selling drugs by threatening Mystery, their bond is put to the test. Book 2 follows Dan and Mystery as they try to negotiate life "on the outside." Their problems don't disappear after they leave prison behind, and there are now new dangers and obstacles to overcome. Dan must deal with financial and emotional issues as his criminal past drifts back into his life, both threatening all he has worked for and enticing him with a seemingly easy path to success. Mystery dislikes the confinement of home life but remains loyal and constant to do all she can to save Dan from harm. How much will they have to sacrifice to find peace and safety on the other side of prison? "Song of the Pack" will appeal to young adult readers, animal lovers, and those interested in the challenges faced by marginalized youth. All proceeds go to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

Kitty Haspel has earned a Master of Arts degree in English Literature from San Francisco State University, a Master of Social Work degree from U.C Berkeley, and a Doctor of Psychology degree from The Wright Institute in Berkeley. For most of her career, she worked in the mental health field as a psychologist and clinical social worker focusing on treating young people of all ages and circumstances, from elementary school children to high school and college youth. She specifically focused on the issues and challenges of incarcerated youth and worked extensively in juvenile halls and youth correctional facilities. Her love of dogs has deeply impacted her life and she has worked with therapy/reading/library dogs to help children and disabled youth overcome shyness and improve their reading skills.