Week 3: YA Novel (Boys and Books)

 Where the Red Fern Grows

By Wilson Rawls

    One of my ALL TIME FAVORITES! Where the Red Fern Grows, is a beloved children's novel that is set in the Ozark Mountains during the Great Depression era following a young boy named Billy Colman, who dreams of owning his own pair of hunting dogs. Through hard work and determination, Billy finally saves enough money to buy two Redbone Coonhound pups, which he names Old Dan and Lil Ann. 

    Billy trains his dogs to become exceptional hunting partners, and together, they embark on many raccoon hunting adventures. The bond that Billy and his dogs share only grows deeper as they face various challenges and dangers in the wilderness as they hunt with one another. Due to the trios hunting abilities, they become well-known in their community. 

    The story starts to take a turn when Old Dan and Lil Ann protect Billy from a mountain lion attack. Old Dan sustains fatal injuries, and Lil Ann, heartbroken, dies shortly after. Billy buries his beloved hunting partners on a hill, and later a rare red fern grows between their graves, symbolizing eternal love and sacredness according to the Native American legend. 

    This touching tale is about the enduring bond between a boy and his dogs, and the ways in which they shape one another's lives. This novel explores themes such as determinations, loyalty, love, and the pain of loss that Billy endures as he has to say goodbye to his two best friends. 

In the Classroom: 

    Where the Red Fern Grows is an excellent book to use in the classroom due to its rich themes, historical context, and engaging narrative. Students can learn about life during one of the most difficult times in American history by reading this narrative, which takes place during the Great Depression. The main character, Billy, exhibits determination, hard work, and loyalty, making the book a great tool for discussing values and character development. Furthermore, the realistic depictions of rural life and the Ozark Mountains improve students knowledge of geography and natural history.

    In order to create a cross-curricular activity that combines literature with history, students can research the Great Depress and its impact on rural America, like the town the story takes place in. Students can present their research, drawing connections between the historical context and events from the book. This activity will encourage critical thinking and helps students to understand the socio-economic background of this story. 

A mapping activity can also further enhance students learning experience. Students can use maps to locate the Ozark Mountains and trace Billy's adventures with his hounds. This will not only improve students geographical skills but also help them to visualize the setting of the story. By integrating history and geography with literature, these activities can provide students with a holistic learning experience that deepens their understanding and overall engagement with the book.

You can also have students compare and contrast this text with the book and movie titled Old Yeller by Fred Gipson.

YouTube Audio book (All 20 Chapters Included): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf278sK9m1pkDFrvQNAgHWAOcouMqTUxX

WATCH THE MOVIE! Compare Text VS Movie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXhPrQbZQgQ