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Lucy’s Way logo featuring soft blue tones, paw prints, and a yin-yang symbol.

The Story of a Dog, a Drunk, and the Tao

In 2007, Mark Saluke was on a fast track toward an early death, lost in the depths of alcoholism. After yet another arrest offered one final chance, he began the painful climb into sobriety—and that’s when Lucy appeared.

LUCY’S WAY tells the story of the dog who quietly guided Mark from the chaos of addiction into the calm of recovery. Woven with themes of addiction, companionship, and Taoism, the memoir reveals how Lucy was already living the wisdom Mark was just beginning to grasp. Through her, he discovered a path to peace, one paw print at a time.

Published by the author in association with Fearless Literary

Book cover of "Lucy’s Way: A Dog, a Drunk, and the Tao" by Mark Saluke featuring a peaceful blue design with paw prints and a yin-yang symbol.

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Author Mark Saluke with his dog Lucy, the inspiration behind Lucy’s Way.

Mark and Lucy

Author Mark Saluke

Mark Saluke is a storyteller, recovery advocate, and lifelong seeker of meaning. With a career spanning two decades as a journalist for the Kokomo Tribune and other publications, Mark has shared stories that connect people through truth, humanity, and hope. His personal journey—from the depths of active addiction to a life of mindful recovery—is at the heart of his debut memoir, Lucy’s Way: A Dog, A Drunk, and The Tao.

After fifteen years in active addiction, Mark found his path to recovery illuminated by the simple wisdom of Taoism—and the unwavering companionship of Lucy, a Labrador beagle who became his guide and best friend. Now sober and rooted in a daily practice of mindfulness, Mark continues to share messages of healing, resilience, and compassion.

Today, Mark lives in Indiana and carries Lucy’s spirit with him in every step forward.

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Upcoming Author Events

Interested in hosting an event with Mark? Whether it’s a book signing, author talk, or a reading and discussion, Mark Saluke is available for in-person or community gatherings. He especially welcomes opportunities to partner on fundraisers for animal shelters and humane societies—like the one where Lucy’s journey began. To explore event ideas or schedule a visit, email Mark directly at msaluke@hotmail.com.

Nov. 7, 2025, 5:30-8 pm

Kokomo Howard County Public Library
220 N. Union St.
Kokomo, Indiana 46901

Local Author Fair at First Friday

Mark will join other local authors at the Kokomo Howard County Library main branch. He will be signing and selling copies of Lucy’s Way during the library’s biennial local author fair taking place as part of Kokomo’s “Shop and Stroll” First Friday event in November. For more information on Kokomo First Friday events visit www.thisiskokomo.com, which calls the November event a chance to “Spend the evening exploring downtown’s unique shops and venues to start your holiday shopping.” Lucy’s Way is currently available to check out at KHCPL!

Nov. 15, 2025, 1-3:30 pm

Marion Public Library
600 S. Washington St.
Marion, Indiana 46953

Harvesting Our Stories Local Author Book Fair

Following up his successful book reading and signing event at the Marion Public Library in July, Mark will join other local authors at the “Harvesting Our Stories” local author book fair at MPL in November. Additional details will be added as they become available. MPL has a copy of Lucy’s Way on hand to check out ahead of the event!

Dec. 6, 2025, 1-3pm

Soul Weaver Alchemy
500 N. Jefferson St.
Huntington, Indiana 46750

Book Signing with Mark Saluke

Soul Weaver Alchemy owner Sky Dawn Bickel welcomes Mark from 1-3 p.m. on Dec. 6 where he will be selling and signing copies of Lucy’s Way. Located at Soul Weaver Alchemy’s corner storefront in downtown Huntington, this intimate setting will provide a beautiful backdrop for Mark and guests. Copies of the book are stocked in the store now if you can’t wait until Dec. 6!

Dec. 13, 2025, 1-3pm

Barnes and Noble
17070 Mercantile Blvd.
Noblesville, IN 46060

Book Signing with Mark Saluke

Join local author Mark Saluke as he returns to the Barnes and Noble location in Noblesville for a second signing event for Lucy’s Way. Just in time to grab those extra copies for the holidays.

Past Events

Check here for photo and video galleries from past events.

July 5, 2025, 1-3pm

Barnes and Noble
17070 Mercantile Blvd.
Noblesville, IN 46o60

July 19, 2025, 1-3pm

Marion Public Library
600 S Washington St
Marion, IN 46953

Aug. 16, 2025

Hive Mind Market
613 N. Miller Ave.
Marion, IN 46952

Sep. 6, 2025, 3-6pm

Rockin’ for Rescues Gas City PAC
100 Auditorium Drive ,
Gas City, Indiana 46933

Has Lucy Found Her Way to You?

Email your reflections or a picture of yourself with the book to msaluke@hotmail.com to be considered for the gallery.

Person holding a copy of Lucy’s Way by Mark Saluke next to their dog
A reader with her copy of Lucy's Way in Redington Beach, Florida.
Friend sitting cozy with her copy of Lucy’s Way.
Former counselor standing next to author Mark Saluke while holding his book Lucy’s Way
Person pointing at their copy of Lucy’s Way by Mark Saluke
Person sitting at table with author smiling while getting their copy of Lucy’s Way signed
Cover designer of Lucy's Way holding her copy of the book.
Person reading Lucy’s Way by Mark Saluke
Reader holding copy of book in Guatemala.
Copy of Lucy's Way on plane touching down in Guatemala.
Nephews of Lucy's Way author holding book at Huntington Library
Lucy’s Way book displayed beside urns holding the ashes of Lucy and Buddy Saluke
A reader sends pics of her cat with Lucy's Way.
Two copies of Lucy's Way marked with Library seal.
Picture of Lucy's Way just out of packaging after arriving.
Couple smiling while holding a copy of Lucy’s Way by Mark Saluke

Rachael Lynn

If you’ve ever shared a deep bond with a dog, navigated the challenges of recovery, or drawn inspiration from Taoist philosophy, I recommend Lucy’s Way. A heartfelt and enlightening read. This memoir chronicles Saluke’s journey from the depths of alcoholism to the light of sobriety, guided by the unwavering companionship of his dog, Lucy. Saluke discovers that Lucy embodies the principles of Taoism—living in the moment, embracing simplicity, and finding joy in the everyday. Great Read!!

Kelly Lafferty Gerber

A huge benefit of this book and something I still think about almost on a daily basis is learning how to be present in the moment, and especially with your pet… Being present in the moment and soaking up life’s simple pleasures is something I’ve really tried to apply to my life in general, especially since I’ve read Lucy’s Way. 

I think another big benefit of this book is the power of human strength and resiliency. It’s so amazing to read about your life then and know the person you are today. It’s such a great reminder to me that the person I was 15 years ago is part of who and where I am today, but it doesn’t define who I am today. I think it’s important to remember how we all change on a daily, monthly and yearly basis and the way you’ve written your book and how it jumps around in time reinforces that for me.

Reader

For me personally, your story really hit home about using alcohol and drugs to deal with anxiety. Until pretty recently, I did the same thing. I’ve come to discover I’ve always had a lot of anxiety (social, existential, in general) – I just never really admitted it to myself. Reading your book gave some eye-opening context to my own situation. I found it comforting to hear your story and how you came to terms with it.

Carson Gerber

Your book [Lucy’s Way] also truly made me understand how an animal can change someone’s life and mean so much to a person. I’ve never been a pet person. Honestly, I just don’t have that capacity to be that close to an animal, I think. But the way you told the stories about Lucy allowed me to feel that empathy with another creature, and I get it now.

Rachel, New Jersey

It’s interesting, compelling, intimate, and brave. Stylistically, it’s a kaleidoscope, written with high energy and focus. … I like the style and energy of the writing and how the narrative is intricately structured… My favorite aspect of the book is the way many events, thoughts, and threads twist together to form a whole. It has an energy reflective of Hunter Thompson and Jack Kerouac. The closing of Lucy’s story was incredibly poignant. I didn’t think I would cry, but I did. It reminded me of Zorba the Greek: living in the present, in joy, surrounded by the cruelty of the world. Dealing with demons and our own weaknesses is something we all have to face, and when you find someone to help on the way, that’s a story worth telling.

Heather Fuller

This book is so brave and emotional! The way that Mark looks at the world, or I guess I should say the way that Lucy taught Mark to look at the world, is inspirational. Anyone who has ever struggled with knowing their place in the world will enjoy this book.

Heather Gemmen Wilson, Author of Startling Beauty

The writing is compelling, but somehow the impact on me was tranquility. It’s not just the message of balance and peace that emanates on each page as the author unveils the lessons of Taoism, it’s the gentle tone of the trustworthy narrator… The author writes of loss and addiction which both feel overwhelming and impossible to overcome; and yet this narrator is so clearly at peace that I am forced to conclude that he actually has come to a place of healing. Anyone can say the right words, but it’s impossible to demonstrate the kind of grace and insight the author displays without actually experiencing authentic healing.

Jdwlaughner (Jodi Wells Laughner), via Amazon

Hello friends, I’m eager to share my thoughts about a profoundly moving book written by my close friend Mark Saluke. Our serendipitous meeting in college blossomed into a lifelong friendship, and I treasure the memories we’ve created, as coworkers, roommates and including his meaningful role as an usher at my wedding. His book is a brave and introspective exploration of his experiences with addiction, and the healing impact of his connection with his beloved dog Lucy. Whether you’re personally affected by addiction, an animal lover, or drawn to Taoist wisdom, this book will offer valuable insights and encouragement.

If you are looking for your next book, this is it!

Jon Nordstrom

In the first 80 pages I had cried, belly laughed and seen a close friend in a completely new and delightful way. I finished the book in two days, unable to walk away for very long despite knowing most of the story already. Overall, just a great book filled with practical, anecdotal examples of the ancient wisdom of the Tao…or if you like, just good old direction on how to live life.

Kathy the Bookworm

This book is an extremely emotional read for those of us whose lives have been touched by the addictions of people we love. This book gives them a voice and allows us to see through their eyes. It is also hilarious, especially if you have a taste for doggy slapstick and potty humor. Endearing and wise as Lucy the Tao master is, she has certainly convinced me that I never, ever want to housebreak a puppy. The author’s kindness, gratitude and intelligence shines through with every line. Yet he certainly doesn’t back off from describing his own addiction in all its gritty and humiliating detail. Mark Saluke is a talented journalist whose lyrical prose elevates this first person account to the next level.

Vincent, Kentucky

Hands down, I LOVE LUCY…all my favorite parts were specific details and stories about her life, her antics, and her showing off her big, friendly personality. This book conveys every aspect of her personality extremely well…She is the heart of this book, and the author’s love for her is poured onto every page… I’ve found myself thinking of Lucy over the past week, and I would recommend this to a fellow animal lover… Mark Saluke is great at describing people, places, and things with a particular kind of sensory detail that really puts a picture in your head without coming off as cliché. Aside from all the Lucy tales, which all hit this mark, he does it in other places.

Tom, New York

I was brought to tears. It faithfully portrays the emotional merry-go-round that is presented. What a wonderful and successful story for both Mark and Lucy. The author has a great facility for the language and a talent for gradually revealing a scene. The concept of an onion comes to mind. You keep removing layer after layer, and hopefully, there is something at the core. In this case, there was. It was very realistic and sad. Absolutely believable. If you’ve been around addiction or had put down a dog friend, your experience is on these pages.