Night of the Howling Dogs
Book Description
A storm brews on the horizon, and a group of boys is about to confront their deepest fears. Alone on a camping trip in the wilds of Hawaii, the stakes rise as howling dogs echo through the night, igniting terror and suspicion among new friendships. Tensions flare, and trust is tested when a series of mysterious events threaten their safety. As the sun sets and darkness descends, the boys must confront their inner demons and make choices that could change their lives forever. Will they band together and survive, or will fear rip them apart?
Quick Book Summary
"Night of the Howling Dogs" by Graham Salisbury is a gripping tale of survival and friendship set on the Big Island of Hawaii in the early 1970s. The story follows a Boy Scout troop as they embark on a camping trip to the remote Volcano National Park. What begins as an adventure quickly transforms into a fight for survival when a massive earthquake and tsunami threatens their lives. Stranded, the boys, along with their leaders, must overcome their fears, set aside differences, and work together. Tensions between individuals are heightened by mysterious howling dogs and personal prejudices, testing new bonds and challenging old grudges. Through harrowing trials, the boys learn the value of teamwork, courage, and compassion in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Summary of Key Ideas
Table of Contents
The Challenge of Survival in Nature
The story centers on Dylan, a Boy Scout who joins his troop for a weekend camping expedition in Halape, a secluded location on the Big Island of Hawaii. Excitement and anticipation quickly mingle with tension as interpersonal conflicts arise, especially between Dylan and Louie, a newcomer from Oahu. The group must also contend with eerie signs—strange howling dogs and local legends—heightening the sense of foreboding and unease.
Overcoming Prejudice and Building Trust
As dusk settles, a catastrophic event strikes: an earthquake rocks the island, followed by a destructive tsunami that devastates the campsite. Thrown into chaos, the Scouts are forced to abandon the safety and structure of their activities. The disaster fractures what little comfort and familiarity they had, leaving them isolated and responsible for their own survival in a perilous landscape, with limited supplies and communication.
Leadership and Personal Growth
In the aftermath, the boys and their leaders must quickly adapt. Personal rivalries and prejudices are tested as their lives hang in the balance. Dylan, Louie, and the others are compelled to confront their fears and look beyond their differences. Acts of courage and selflessness emerge as the boys realize the importance of relying on one another. Trust and unity become essential as they search for missing group members and seek rescue.
Friendship Forged Through Adversity
Survival ultimately demands more than physical endurance. Emotional resilience and ingenuity are critical as the troop navigates injuries, emotional trauma, and doubt. Scouting skills are put to the ultimate test, but it is compassion, teamwork, and mutual support that see them through. Each boy faces personal demons—fears of inadequacy, guilt, and alienation—and emerges stronger, shaped by the ordeal.
Facing Fear and the Unknown
When help finally arrives, the survivors carry newfound respect and camaraderie forged in crisis. The story closes with Dylan reflecting on the power of community and empathy. The harrowing experience binds the boys together, demonstrating how adversity can bring out the very best in individuals—creating leaders, healing old wounds, and teaching the profound value of friendship, trust, and courage.
Download This Summary
Get a free PDF of this summary instantly — no email required.