By Dylan McDonough
Recently I was assigned to read Old Yeller by Fred Gipson for my homeschool curriculum. I thought it was going to be boring with a lot of drama, but I actually enjoyed it very much and it is now one of my favorite books. Back in 1957, Disney made a movie about Old Yeller. My family watched it, and unlike other films, it was very true to the book.
After his father left him to go on a cattle run in Wisconsin, fourteen year old Travis becomes the man of the house. Soon a scrappy, ugly-looking “yeller” dog comes into their life by stealing a piece of meat. The mom and five-year old, little Arliss immediately accept the dog into their home, but Travis is angry at him.
As Old Yeller begins to prove himself worthy by protecting the family from a bear attack, sneaky raccoons, and deadly hogs, Travis begins to love the dog. But with all the talk about hydrophobia (rabies) spreading around, Travis worries that it might get his dog.
This book and movie will keep you on the edge of your seats as you follow along. It includes action, drama, scary parts and humor. This movie is perfect for the whole family.
