Wilson Rawls is an American author best known for his classic novel, Where the Red Fern Grows Rawls was born in Oklahoma in 1913 to sharecropping parents who instilled in him a strong sense of hard work and a passion for literature. He was a voracious reader as a youth, becoming familiar with many of the great works of classic literature and history. Rawls went on to become a journalist and wrote for a number of publications including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and the Oklahoma Times. His writing career was cut short when he suffered from chronic tuberculosis in his mid-thirties, but he turned his attention to novel writing and produced his most beloved work in 1961. Where the Red Fern Grows is a timeless story about a young boy's bond with his two dogs, set in the Ozark Mountains. Rawls wrote Where the Red Fern Grows over the course of four years, often working until 3 a.m. despite his failing health. He drew upon his own youthful experiences as well as his profound love of nature to create the beloved tale. Although Rawls passed away at the age of 54, his classic novel is still popular and continues to be reprinted in many languages and sold worldwide.
Five Best Ways Wilson Rawls is Important:
1. Rawls’ classic novel Where the Red Fern Grows is an enduring work of fiction. Its captivating story of love, loss, and the power of the human spirit has made it a favorite for generations. It is considered to be one of the most beloved novels of all time, often appearing on lists of the 100 best books for young adults.
2. Rawls’ writing style is distinct, often drawing upon his own experiences growing up in the rugged and poverty-stricken Ozark Mountains. His prose is vivid and poetic, allowing readers to feel as though they are experiencing the story first-hand.
3. Rawls' work has been adapted for the silver screen several times. While not all of these adaptations have been successful, they have encouraged a renewed interest in Rawls' work and a new generation of readers.
4. Rawls' work serves as an important reminder of the power and importance of nature. His descriptions of the Ozark Mountains are masterful, and his emotional and passionate relationship with nature is often evident in his writing.
5. Rawls was an important innovator in his field, often experimenting with complex themes and new approaches to storytelling. His style of writing is often compared to the greats, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary authors.