Where The Red Fern Grows

I have always read to the boys. Short bedtime stories, reptile facts, animal magazines, the directions on their wii Lego games - but this was the first time we've sat down as a family and conquered our first novel. Time to get caught up with my children and their "classics". I vowed I would read them with my kids and this was book number one.

I was actually surprised they sat and listened for 45 minutes at a time. I loved all our time together and their genuine interest in the book. There were several times Cole would say "Oh, do you think it was the same as back in that other chapter?" He wanted to know the meaning of the words, where this had taken place, and all about everything! I was shocked to hear him say "No, mom - do you think it was the same mountain lion that almost got them when he first got his dogs?" - before the reference in the book was even mention. I'm shocked at the comprehension!

As we neared the end of the book, I had to read ahead. I had been warned it was "super sad", so my only guess would be the dogs died. Well, I can't say there were any tears because it was obvious. I'm a heart of stone.

Last night we tackled the last two chapters with Cole and Brad. They hung onto my every word. When we reached the saddest point - no tears from my boys! Not a drop! I will admit when I read it the second time, I teared up when the mention of the mother and father hurting so deeply for Billy. At the sight of this my boys were LAUGHING! At ME! They laughed through the end of the book. Cole said he wanted to be sad, but just couldn't. That was the end of that! I guess they are more of a "cat person". They're as cold as ice! What's next on our reading agenda? I can't wait to pick out a new one!