In 1981, Joe Dante directed and released The Howling, a movie that set new standards for its in-camera special effects, designed by Rob Bottin. The film features direction by Joe Dante, a screenplay by John Sayles, and an ensemble cast including Dee Wallace, Patrick Macnee, Elisabeth Brooks, Christopher Stone, Belinda Balaski, Dennis Dugan, Don McLeod, Margie Impert, Robert Picardo, Dick Miller, and cameos by Hollywood legends.

Author and editor Lee Gambin has written the story of the making of The Howling, with a plot synopsis, critical analysis, behind the scenes information, and interviews with cast and crew. The book includes nearly 150 stills of the movie, ranging from individual frame enlargements to behind the scenes photographs. Over 350 pages, this sewn paperback is part of the Centipede Press Studies in the Horror Film series.