Blue Wolf

November 21, 2009

by Catherine Creedon

Life is lonely for Korean-American Jamie Park since the death of his mother. While he finds solace in running track – though a strange sensation nipping at his heels leaves him curiously confused – his busy scientist father’s absence only adds to the loneliness. When Aunt Louise, whom Jamie has never met, invites him to spend the summer at her isolated mountain retreat in the Pacific Northwest, the adventure of a lifetime begins.

Living in a one-room cabin that lacks plumbing and electricity, Jamie eagerly absorbs his eccentric aunt’s lessons in nature lore, organic gardening, and survival in the wilderness. His love of geology and running continues, but so do some very puzzling experiences… Jamie is now more and more aware of a connection he feels with a neighboring family of wolves. Gradually, he realizes there is a purpose to this visit, and as he exposes the truth, Jamie not only risks his own safety but also faces a life-transforming decision.

In an extraordinary debut novel, Catherine Creedon skillfully blends a touching coming-of-age story with the wonders of a natural world filled with inexplicable mystery.

Note from Julie:

This is a remarkable debut novel.

The first book by an outside author to be published in the Julie Andrews Collection, BLUE WOLF’s manuscript was fortuitously given to us by a close mutual friend of Cathy’s and ours on the same day we closed our imprint deal with Harper Collins. We knew the instant we read it that it belonged in the ‘launch list’ for the Collection.

This is a book that sparks the imagination, provokes conversation and celebrates transformation. It has deep roots in science and history, while at the same time offering mystery, magic and adventure …all against a magnificent landscape of the wonders of nature.

With its celebration of the natural world, the strength of the human spirit and the power of family ties, BLUE WOLF embodies all the values the Julie Andrews Collection stands for.

Quotes:

“Creedon’s prose unspools with a masterly rhythm. Readers will want to devour this absorbing tale in a single sitting.” – Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“intriguing and well-written.” – ALA Booklist

Special Features: Teacher’s Guide

By Catherine Creedon.