“Where the Red Fern Grows” is a classic coming-of-age novel written by Wilson Rawls.
It’s a heartwarming and poignant story that captures the deep bond between a young boy and his two loyal hunting dogs in the Ozark Mountains of Oklahoma.
| Title | Where the Red Fern Grows |
| Author | Wilson Rawls |
| Publisher | Yearling; Reissue edition (September 1, 1996) |
| Language | English |
| File Format | |
| Number of pages | 304 pages |
| Customer Reviews | 4.8 out of 5 stars 17,298 Reviews |
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Where the Red Fern Grows Novel summary by Wilson Rawls
The novel is narrated by Billy Coleman, an adult looking back on his childhood in the Ozarks during the Great Depression.
As a young boy, Billy yearns for a pair of coonhounds to hunt raccoons with, but his family is too poor to afford them.
Determined to realize his dream, Billy saves money for two years and eventually acquires a pair of coonhounds, which he names Old Dan and Little Ann.
Billy, Old Dan, and Little Ann from an inseparable trio and embark on countless adventures hunting raccoons in the rugged wilderness.
Along the way, they face challenges, encounters with other hunters, and the harsh realities of the wild.
The heart of the story lies in the unbreakable bond between Billy and his dogs, as well as the lessons they teach him about love, loyalty, and determination.
The novel also explores themes of perseverance, the importance of family, and the beauty of the natural world.
However, the story takes a tragic turn when a fateful encounter with a legendary raccoon leads to a series of events that test the strength of their bond.
The conclusion of the novel is both heart-wrenching and deeply moving.
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Where the Red Fern Grows Novel summary by Wilson Rawls free online read
Conclusion
“Where the Red Fern Grows” is a timeless and emotionally resonant novel that explores the themes of love, friendship, and the indomitable spirit of a young boy and his beloved dogs.
Wilson Rawls’ storytelling captures the beauty of the natural world and the enduring power of the human-animal connection.
It’s a story that continues to touch the hearts of readers of all ages.
FAQs
While the book is often recommended for middle-grade readers, it does contain some emotionally intense and sad moments.
Yes, there have been film adaptations of the novel, including a 1974 version and a 2003 remake.
Readers discover enduring love, determination in pursuing dreams, and profound human-animal connections in the narrative.
