The Call of the Wild by Jack London

Jack London's Call of the Wild depicts the transformation of a loyal, family dog into a primordial beast of the wild. I could not believe how good this book is especially because it is about a dog! In this book Buck, a dog, experiences several life changing events while becoming a famous dog of the treacherous Northwest Mining Territory.

First, I want to start with my opinion of the book. For being such a short book, it infatuated me more often than not. I think London does an incredibly unique job by making such a good book out of the actions and adventures of a dog. I couldn't put this book down after I started to read it. London fills this book with extraordinary feats that would surely not be possible for any other dog except for Buck. Before I began this book, I wasn't sure I would like it because it was only about a dog. By Buck's actions and description in Call of the Wild, I want to find a dog comparable to him for myself. I give this book two thumbs up because it really captured my attention and kept me wanting more.

Buck lived a perfect life...he had a good family, comfortable home, and undivided rule of his land. But one day he is sold by an indebted man and shipped north into Canada. It doesn't take Buck long to learn the trade of dog-sledding and pretty soon was smarter than the other dogs. He has more than his fair share of dangerous encounters during his time dog-sledding too. Almost immediately after arriving in Canada he was nearly clubbed to death, however, he soon learns the rule of club and fang (which he will use all throughout the book). Later on Buck becomes one of the best leading sled-dogs in the world; a name he rightfully owned. Yet, he is traded among owners numerous times throughout the book until he finds refuge with John Thornton. From the day the two met, they are inseparable. Buck saves John's life and makes him a ton of money, but in the end Buck thinks he let John down.

Call of the Wild is a must read for all students. I was captivated by Buck's adventures and marvelous character. Jack London will intrigue readers to not put the book down and to want more and more. Do not overlook this book just because it is about a dog's experiences; Call of the Wild is a fascinating novel that will definitely not let the reader down.



These two sites provide an abundance of extra information on the Call of the Wild. You can find in depth summaries, related information, and interactive activities.


http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/call/

http://library.thinkquest.org/CR0211900/call/call_of_the_wild.htm