"Where the Red Fern Grows" is a classic children's novel written by Wilson Rawls, published in 1961. The story is about a boy named Billy who saves up to buy and train two Redbone Coonhounds for hunting in the Ozark Mountains, reflecting Rawls' own childhood experiences in the Ozarks of northeastern Oklahoma
. The novel has been adapted into films, notably in 1974 and 2003. The 1974 film was directed by Norman Tokar and filmed in Oklahoma, including Natural Falls State Park, and received positive reviews
. The 2003 adaptation also tells the heartwarming tale of Billy and his dogs
. The story explores themes of love, adventure, and the bond between a boy and his dogs, set against the backdrop of the rugged Ozark country
. It remains a beloved classic for young readers and has been praised for its authentic narrative and vivid descriptions of nature
