Sometimes the summary of a book doesn’t quite tell you enough about the book. You want something more detailed, to tell you if this book is truly for YOU. (Cause not every book is, and that’s okay!) So here is my spoiler-free review of the book. Is it for you? Let’s find out!

Where the Red Fern Grows is a story of a young boy named Billy growing up in the Ozarks with his family. His parents want to move out of the country and to a town so their boys can get education, but they are poor and money is few and far between. Billy, on the other hand, has no dreams of that. He wants, above all else, two beautiful coonhounds (hunting dogs).

Unfortunately, the dogs are far too expensive for them. Despite this, Billy thinks that with hard work and determination, he will be able to reach his dreams.

First, the basics!

This book is historical fiction, and stands at 304 pages, or 76,000 words. Not too long, for any worried about it! In comparison, its about the same length as the first book in the Harry Potter series.

You saw the cover with dogs, you knew it was coming-

This is a tragic story. It might be one of the things this book is most well-known for.

But…sometimes the most heartbreaking tales are the most powerful. I think that applies to this book. It’s heartwarming, heartbreaking, and wonderfully touching. Don’t let the sorrowful part of it stop you!

The book just makes you love these two dogs, Ann and Dan. Their bond is frankly inspiring, their empathy for each other unmatched.

(Personally, my dog could never do what they do. She’d give up in the first few minutes of hunting…)

I hope something in this post inspired you to read Where the Red Fern Grows, because it was definitely a hit for me. Thanks for reading!

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.