Reviews

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

wendyk's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This is one of my favorite books ever, but I hadn't read it in decades. It hit the same, and different. Still a very emotional read, this story of a boy and his dogs. It's a snapshot of a youthful summer and captures the deep desire of wishing for something and the lasting love when the wish comes true. I will always love and recommend this book.

little_wing's review against another edition

4.0

Saddest book ever. I still remember having to read it in school and crying my little heart out 😢.

I had to give it 4 Stars, however because it was a very good story, albeit heart wrenching.

kzeitner's review against another edition

adventurous emotional sad medium-paced

5.0

jbrown_leo's review against another edition

5.0

A wonderful classic

I have read this book many times and every time I am in awe of how wonderful the story is. It’s one of those books that every kid should have to read and then re-read when they’re adults. I read it alongside my eldest and now again with my middle son. I look forward to reading it agin when my daughter is ready.

elusorius's review against another edition

4.0

This was a beautifully written, sad book. The determination of the little boy was inspiring and the bond between him and his dogs was one to be envied. Wilson Rawls is a master at describing the thrilling chase scenes and the pain of the sorrowful scenes. I would love to give this book a 5/5, but it hits just short of the mark for me. For one, sexism and lack of respect for nature are present all throughout the book, especially at the beginning. And while I understand that it was written in a different time, this made it hard to read. Moreover, religion had a strong influence on the story and the boy. Especially nearing the end, where the boy was suddenly healed from his pain because it was God's will. I find this unrealistic and it takes me out of the story. I disliked the ending because of this. In short: 4.5/5 for me.

marti3's review against another edition

adventurous hopeful reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

mediocrechelsey's review against another edition

5.0

Sweet little story of a boy and his dogs.

letsreadmorebooks's review against another edition

4.0

tearjerker.

kristensreadingnook's review against another edition

5.0

Holy buckets that was an emotional roller coaster! I did not read this as a kid, so I didn’t know what I was getting into when my husband suggested I read this to my boys.

maddi_was_reborn's review against another edition

4.0

Everyone should read this book! You cry and you laugh and what more can you ask for!