Hour of the Wolf

Author:
Patricia Calvert

Recommended Age Group:
MIDDLE SCHOOL

160 pages.
Source: Signet Vista book published by New American Library, 1633 Broadway, New York, New York, 10019, 1985 copyright. Price: $2.50.

Synopsis: High school senior Jake Mathiessen heads to Alaska after attempting suicide at his home in Minnesota. Not having any direction in his life, Jake, the Outsider, meets Danny and Kamina. After Danny's unexpected death while crossing a river, Jake decides to run the Iditarod in his honor. But does an Outsider stand a chance in the Iditarod?

This is a good book for 6th graders and above. The book talks briefly about the history behind the race, as well as training a team. Jake has to face his own fears and learns a lot about life from both Kamina and Danny. The book does deal with a father with high expectations and the topic of suicide.