Where the Red Fern Grows: Mcdougal Littell Literature Connections (Holt McDougal Library, Middle School with Connections)

In the book Where the Red Fern Grows, Wilson Rawls writes a simple, yet powerful story from a bygone era that is still relevant and meaningful to young readers today. Billy has a loving family and a simple but happy life; but there is one thing that he wants more than anything else: hunting dogs. Billy eventually saves up the money to buy the dogs that his family could not afford. He raises them to be champion hunting dogs. The adventures that accompany this boy and his dogs are as treacherous as they are exciting, and lead to a bond that can only be described as mutual love. The boundaries of love and loyalty borne out of love are constantly tested and eventually lead to tragedy.The story is deeply meaningful and Rawls brings it all to life with realistic characters and a setting that makes you feel like the place you were raised (or wish you were raised). I particular enjoyed the extensive use of figurative language as an added effect of both character development (setting a tone of simple but pure country folk) and the overall mood of the story, which is in contrast to the difficult times and occurrences in the characters lives.One unfortunate aspect of the book that for me detracts from the overall story, without adding anything to it, is the use of profanity. Some of the word choice is period language, but other words just seem a bit much by standards of then and now. Perhaps this is a nitpick, and ordinarily it would not matter, but I feel it is simply out of place in a book I would otherwise label as wholesome. Along with some violent scenes, this would be enough for me to recommend it be for children older than 10.Overall, a great story that is very well told that will stay with you long after you read it!

I purchased this for a young boy, but when I got it I felt he is too young for it at this time. Instead, I gave it to our high schoollibrarian to put on the shelves for high school students who sometimes don't read because they "can't find a book" of interest.I loved this book when I was young. Hopefully, it will be read and re-read.

The writing is so well done it reminds me of why I love books. The characters are well honed too. I must admit this one made me cry so much at the end. Children must be prepared for the sadness at the end before reading.

A classic story of adventure and love. Great reading for pre-teens, and a enjoyable for teens. It was so memorable and well told, as I remember the story today, it still brings tears to my eyes.

Great classic to read to children, especially adventurous boys who love dogs. Lots of issues to discuss as you read about a young boy finding his way in life and death.