Old Yeller

I saw this movie so long ago that I have only one hazy memory of it - a scene in which Old Yeller is growling at a boy. I think? That could actually be completely made up. Regardless, I was aware of how this would end but had never read the book.

UNTIL NOW
(dun dun dunnnn)

I loved the simplicity of this story - even the notoriously sad ending is no frills. I loved the tale of a simpler time, a time of living off the land and old fashioned farming and hunting. Travis is a great narrator with both words and actions that are a lovely mix of trying to be tough and grownup while his father is away but showing a vulnerability in what he hasn't yet perfected - chores and emotions alike. Mama is a strong character, handling the farm and two children while her husband is away for months. Little Arliss...ugh. I know he's just a small boy, but I wanted to wring his neck more than once. I'm not sure if his name or his actions annoyed me more.

And then there is Old Yeller.