Plot summary, “The Yearling” by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Yearling" is a classic children's novel written by American author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. It was first published in 1938 and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1939. The book is set in the rugged wilderness of central Florida in the late 19th century and revolves around the life of a young boy named Jody Baxter.
The story follows Jody Baxter, a 12-year-old boy living with his family in the Florida backwoods. Jody is an only child, and his father, Penny Baxter, is a hardworking and loving man who struggles to make a living as a subsistence farmer.
One day, while Jody is wandering in the woods, he comes across a young fawn, an orphaned deer. Despite his father's warnings about the responsibilities of raising a wild animal, Jody becomes deeply attached to the fawn and decides to adopt it as a pet. He names the fawn "Flag."
As Flag grows, he becomes increasingly destructive to the family's crops and livelihood. This puts a strain on Jody's relationship with his father, who insists that the deer must be set free to prevent further damage. Jody is torn between his love for the yearling and his sense of duty to his family.
Throughout the novel, Jody experiences the challenges of growing up and the complexities of life in the wilderness. He learns important lessons about responsibility, loss, and the harsh realities of survival in the wild.
"The Yearling" is a poignant and emotionally charged coming-of-age story that beautifully captures the bond between a young boy and his beloved pet. It vividly portrays the rugged Florida landscape and the struggles of a family living on the fringes of civilization.
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings' writing style is praised for its evocative descriptions of nature and its ability to create a deeply immersive and engaging narrative. The book has been widely acclaimed for its exploration of themes such as the relationship between humans and nature, the sacrifices families make for one another, and the challenges of growing up in a harsh and unforgiving environment.
"The Yearling" has remained a beloved classic for generations and continues to be cherished by readers of all ages for its timeless storytelling and its celebration of the beauty and hardships of life in the wild.