The Rescue by David Cory (1959)

A kind Circus Elephant discovers that Little Jack Rabbit is missing and sets out to find him, accompanied by Mr. Rabbit and Lady Love. They encounter various animals, including Old Barney Owl, Old Man Weasel, Mr. Wicked Wolf, and Danny Fox, all of whom they suspect may have taken the little rabbit. Each animal denies involvement, but the Elephant insists they join the search to keep them out of trouble. As they traverse the Shady Forest, they hear a faint voice revealing Little Jack Rabbit's location by the Bubbling Brook. Rushing to the spot, they find him trapped between two trees. The Circus Elephant uses his strength to help, but Little Jack Rabbit manages to free himself and jumps into Lady Love's arms. Grateful for the Elephant's assistance, the rabbits bid farewell to the other animals, who leave to avoid further trouble. The Elephant carries Little Jack Rabbit back home, where the family is reunited. The story concludes with the rabbits expressing their happiness and the Elephant heading off to prepare for the circus's next destination. The narrative emphasizes themes of friendship, teamwork, and the importance of helping others in need.

By David Cory · First published 1959 · Genre: Adventure, Children's literature, Action · 2,260 words

First lines

The Firefly with her little light Went twinkling through the quiet night. In and out among the trees She fluttered 'neath the whispering leaves, Until at last with wondrous sense She lighted on the Old Rail Fence.

"Here we are," exclaimed the Circus Elephant, taking down the bars and stepping into the Sunny Meadow, "here we are, safe home at last."

What this Textopian page supports

The Rescue is listed on Textopian as a short story by David Cory, dated 1959 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

• Work type: Short story
• Author: David Cory
• Date: 1959 CE
• Language: English
• Genres: Adventure, Children's literature, Action, Fantasy
• Length: 2,260 words
• Structure: 1 section, 80 paragraphs
• Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

• Work identity for The Rescue by David Cory
• Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
• Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
• Readability and classroom-planning context
• Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

• What should a reader notice first when entering The Rescue?
• How does this short story by David Cory fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
• Where does Adventure first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

• The Rescue by Edward Dyson
• The Messenger by David Cory
• Garm A Hostage by Rudyard Kipling
• The Courier Star by Gilbert Parker
• The Two Soldiers And The Robber by Esopo
• Red Dog by Rudyard Kipling

Genres

• Adventure — Central story revolves around the rescue mission which involves risk, danger, and physical effort.
• Children's literature — The simplicity of the story, style of writing, and moral lessons make it suitable for young readers.
• Action — The book is replete with scenes that depict active engagement and physical exertion.
• Fantasy — The book involves make-believe situations and exaggerated scenarios, creating an escape from reality.

Tags

adventure · rescue · courage · friendship · heroism · survival · exploration · teamwork · conflict · determination · suspense · action

More by David Cory

• The Adventures Of Puss In Boots (1900)
• The Iceberg Express (1987)
• The Cruise of the Noah's Ark (1894)
• Little Jack Rabbit and the Squirrel Brothers (1940)
• The Magic Soap Bubble (1978)
• Puss Junior and Robinson Crusoe (1792)
• Puss in Boots, Jr., and the Good Gray Horse (1987)
• Hawk Eye (1970)
• All works by David Cory