By Yana BondarchukSat. 20 Apr. 20243min Read

Our Favourite Where the Red Fern Grows Quotes

Wilson Rawls' "Where the Red Fern Grows" is a touching narrative about a young boy, Billy, and his two coonhounds in the Ozarks.
Our Favourite Where the Red Fern Grows Quotes

If you enjoy heartwarming stories of friendship and adventure, you might appreciate Wilson Rawls's "Where the Red Fern Grows."

First published in 1961, this beloved novel is set in the Ozark Mountains during the Great Depression. It follows young Billy Colman, who saves up to buy two Redbone Coonhounds. The story chronicles their adventures and the profound bond they share, exploring themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the impact of loss. Rawls's narrative captures the essence of youthful determination and the deep connections between a boy and his dogs, making it a favorite among readers of all ages.

 

"After the last shovel of dirt was patted in place, I sat down and let my mind drift back through the years. I thought of the old K.C. Baking Powder can, and the first time I saw my pups in the box at the depot." – Billy Colman


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This quote beautifully reflects on Billy's journey and the deep nostalgia and love he feels for his dogs. "Where the Red Fern Grows" is a story that stays with you, evoking memories of childhood and the poignant lessons learned about growth and letting go.

"I buried Little Ann by the side of Old Dan. I know she was happy, because I could see the candlelight shining in her soft, brown eyes." – Billy Colman



Billy's emotional farewell to his beloved dogs captures the heartache and love that defines his relationship with Old Dan and Little Ann. This novel explores the bonds of friendship and loyalty that transcend even death, leaving a lasting impact on readers' hearts.

"It's strange indeed how memories can lie dormant in a man's mind for so many years. Yet those memories can be awakened and brought forth fresh and new, just by something you've seen, or something you've heard, or the sight of an old familiar face." – Narrator



Reflecting on the power of memory, this quote highlights the novel's theme of the enduring nature of experiences and emotions. It's a reminder of how our past shapes us and continues to influence our present.

"Men, dogs, woods, and wilderness. They just seem to go together." – Billy Colman



Billy's simple statement about his connection to nature and his dogs underscores the primitive and pure relationships explored in the book. Rawls vividly captures the essence of adventure and companionship that resonates with anyone who feels a call to the wild.

"You were worth it, old friend, and a thousand times over." – Billy Colman



A poignant acknowledgment of the value of Old Dan's friendship and loyalty, this quote resonates deeply with anyone who has ever loved and lost a pet. It speaks to the heart of the novel's message about the priceless nature of true companionship.

"The red fern has grown and has completely covered the two little mounds. I know it is still there, hiding its secret beneath those long, red leaves, but it will lie there forever." – Narrator



Symbolizing eternal peace and the sacredness of the ground where Old Dan and Little Ann rest, the red fern serves as a powerful metaphor for the cycle of life and the rebirth of hope.

"If you've ever looked into a hound's eyes and seen the love there, you would understand." – Billy Colman



This quote encapsulates the depth of the emotional bond between Billy and his dogs, highlighting the universal theme of unconditional love that "Where the Red Fern Grows" so beautifully portrays.

"A loving heart was better and stronger than wisdom." – Narrator



In a world that often values intellect over emotions, this quote serves as a reminder of the strength and importance of love, which is a central theme throughout Billy's journey.

"God sure was good to make the wild blackberry." – Billy Colman



Billy's appreciation for the simple joys in life, like finding wild blackberries during an adventure, adds a layer of innocence and contentment to the narrative, reminding readers to cherish the small wonders of the natural world.

"There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven. And a time to every purpose." – Narrator



Echoing the biblical passage from Ecclesiastes, this quote reflects on the natural rhythms of life and death, joy and sorrow, which are so powerfully depicted in Billy's story.

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