Just finished reading Where the Red Fern Grows.

[auburngrad82]

I asked a while back for book recommendations for our rescue group's website. This was one.

All I can say is what a sad, beautiful story. There's not a lot of books that move me to tears, but this was one. I'm sorry I hadn't discovered it years ago because I would never have forgotten it. My coworker saw it on my desk and he remembered reading it when he was a kid. He wants to re-read it.

Awesome book.

[Qanisqineq]

1. I adore that book but haven't read it in years

When I was in probably the 4th or 5th grade our librarian read it to us. I remember her crying so hard at the end that she turned it over to one of the students to finish. I immediately bought the book and read it on my own. I was in tears halfway through the book knowing how it would end.

I haven't read the book since -- 20 years later (give or take a few). The librarian was suffering from cancer for years. She wore a wig and had an amputated arm due to the cancer. It was probably 4 or 5 years after reading my class this book when she died. She introduced me to so many books in all different genres -- some books that were beyond my reading level but I could always turn to her for help. She was a wonderful strong woman and her death was a huge blow to teachers and students in my school. Although I don't think of her often, when I do I realize just how much she influenced my life.

I own a copy of Where the Red Fern Grows and haven't read it in 20 years. I don't think I could -- the story is sad enough but it would also bring back so many memories of that wonderful librarian.

[CottonBear]

2. Oh man. I read that wonderful book in 5th grade. It is so sad.

That book could make almost anyone cry. :cry:

[Jo March]

3. I recommended that to you & I'm so glad you read it

I read it when I was younger and I've never forgotten it. It is a most excellent book. I cried and cried at the end but it was a good cry.

I'd reread it but I'm not sure that I'm ready for the emotional punch that it packs.

:thumbsup:

[auburngrad82]

4. It is a great book.

I don't think I'll ever forget the story. Some books stick with you forever. This will be one of them. Thanks for recommending it. I had never heard of it.