Old Yeller

Old Yeller

by: Fred Gipson

With the men gone on a cattle drive, fourteen year old Travis is in charge of looking out for his little brother ,Arliss, and his mother in the dangerous hill country of Texas during the late 1860's. There are many dangers about: bears, wolves, rabid skunks,and the ever-present threat of Indian attacks, but Travis is determined to rise above it all and keep his family safe in his father's absence. One day an old "Yeller" dog shows up and Travis wants to run it off at first, but after the dog first saves his brother's life then his mother's, Travis comes to love the dog. Only to have his heart broken when Old Yeller contracts rabies and is forced to face the sad realities of life.

I like this book because it is all about one of the greatest friendships anyone can ever experience. Even when Travis was mean to the dog and tried to chase him off, Yeller kept on doing whatever he could to make Travis accept him. I personally know how it feels to have a dog that is 100% devoted to making you feel protected and happy. It was so sad to read when Yeller got infected with rabies. I could never imagine having to shoot my dog when i was so young. He knew he had to be brave in the time his dad was gone, and he didn't let his father down.

Summary: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Yeller

About the author: http://www.bookrags.com/wiki/Fred_Gipson