Black of Night

When Benny, a homeless black cat, ends up in a city shelter, he doesn't think it can get any worse until he is sought out and stolen by a disturbed teen to be senselessly sacrificed on Devil's Night. Jilly, a thirteen-year-old orphan, whose plight it is to save the stolen cat, has no idea the love she'll find yet the danger she'll endure as she follows the murderous teen into the black of night.

"Ward's book is a very good read about animal cruelty and where it can lead. Her story will move you, and in it you'll find the good and bad that exists in mankind."

—Nancy Peterson, Cat Programs Manager
The Humane Society Of The United States

"Superbly crafted with heart, Black of Night builds with suspense, following the perilous path of black cat Benny and his loving teen Jilly. Their brave, tender journey guides fortunate readers humanely through the complex range of emotions and issues of homeless cats and animal cruelty. If you love cats, read this book. It's purr-fect!"

—Bob Walker, award-winning author of The Cats' House
member of the Cat Writers' Association

"A poignant animal rescue story with a taste of the occult. Teenagers will relate well to the bold mix of characters and will recommend Black of Night to their friends."

—Ann Jaski, middle school Media Specialist

"A great book that fits all categories for a reader and is perfect for cat or pet lovers. Easily one of my favorite books. I love it!"

—Noah Matthews, eighth grader
Anderson Middle School, Berkley, Michigan

Running Home

Why is Byron running? When a puppy realizes that his dreams of a happy and loving home are not meant to be, he runs away at the first opportunity. But forces beyond this world send messages to him, and others, that he needs to return. Will going back to a horrible situation save his life, or will it destroy it?

"Running Home captured my attention from the start. It is a suspenseful, heartwarming, and creative piece of writing. One can't help but fall in love with Byron and feel the emotion as he struggles through his painful journey to true happiness."

—Kristy Watkins-Visnaw, Elementary School Teacher and Volunteer Dog Trainer
Michigan Humane Society

"The depiction of Byron's existence truly expresses what thousands of animals face each day in the world. We can only hope and pray that each of them find eternal happiness in a forever home. This hope allows those of us in rescue to continue the work we do to make a difference for each animal."

—Marie Skladd, President
Michigan Animal Adoption Network/Animal Care Network

"WOW! It tugged at every emotion—sadness, happiness, and anger. I even found myself laughing out loud. All dog lovers will be reminded of how deep the human/canine bond can be after reading Running Home."

—Lynne Ecenbarger, Educational Consultant and Author
Member of the Humane Society of the United States and
Member of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

"Byron's delightful story rings with humor, honesty, and love. You will never see dogs the same way after reading this. I can't wait to bring this book to my students—the unconventional approach Ward has taken to Byron's story will excite and inspire their own writing."

—Lisa Bagchi Anderson, Middle School English and Creative Writing Teacher