Big Red

Jim Kjelgaard’s novel Big Red (1945) traces the adventures of protagonist Danny Pickett after he befriends a unique Irish setter named Red. Danny has lived at the edge of the Wintapi wilderness with his father, Ross Pickett, for as long as he can remember. Although he loves his father, their life together, and the surrounding woods, Danny longs for a friend. Danny is thrilled when Mr. Haggin, the Pickett’s property owner and boss, hires Danny as his show dog Red’s caretaker. Red still belongs to Mr. Haggin, but he moves in with Danny thereafter. Danny’s relationship with his new dog teaches Danny responsibility while developing his capacities for compassion, loyalty, and trust. Every day, Danny and Red adventure in the woods and through the mountains together. They hunt partridges, fish for bass, rescue cows, and face bears. These challenges teach Danny about life, while developing the novel’s themes of Coming of Age and Personal Growth, the Bonds Between Humans and Animals, and Respecting and Understanding Nature.

This guide uses the 2023 Maple Press paperback edition of the novel.