THE OLD MAN AND THE BOY

by Robert Ruark ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 17, 1957

Dismiss from your mind any preconception of Ruark as the author of Something of Value. Enjoy to the hilt this enchanting and nostalgic recreation of his own boyhood, in the woods and on the shores of North Carolina, near Cape Halter, under the supervision of a remarkable grandfather. ""The Old Man"" brought up young Ruark well, teaching him to shoot and fish, with due regard to conservation; how to manage a gun, the art of shooting grouse and duck in vital spots; how to shoot squirrels, skin and cook them- and the fine art of living in the woods. Food plays a major part- and such food! Other men contributed to the boy's education, but always ""the Old Man"" plays the lead, philosophical but never overdoing it. (""Don't be noble"", he warns the boy, ""it's wrecking the country)"". He was a disciplinarian when necessary- and a perfect companion. The book should be savored as a tale in praise of the Old Man and the story of a remarkable boyhood. Though primarily a man's book (and a boy's), wives and sisters and aunts will borrow it for themselves. It is a tale for naturalists and fishermen and hunters, for all who love the woods and waters, animals, boats and people- and particularly for those who have themselves owned a superlative ""Old Man"" for a grandfather.

Pub Date: Nov. 17, 1957

ISBN: 0805002391

Page Count: -

Publisher: Henry Holt

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 1957

Categories: NONFICTION