Bowser the Hound

Name: Bowser the Hound
Author: Thornton W Burgess

The narrative follows Bowser the Hound, a straightforward and earnest dog, as he embarks on a chase after Old Man Coyote, who is cunning and full of tricks. Bowser's enthusiasm for the hunt leads him far from home, where he becomes lost and faces various challenges, including falling into a river and struggling to find his way back. As Bowser navigates unfamiliar territory, he experiences exhaustion, cold, and hunger, ultimately howling in despair. Meanwhile, Old Man Coyote, having successfully led Bowser astray, returns home, confident that Bowser will not be a nuisance for some time. Blacky the Crow, observing Bowser's plight, feels sympathy and decides to help him. He knows the way back home but also recognizes that Bowser must find his own way. Blacky encounters Reddy Fox, who is intrigued by the idea of fat hens and is led to believe that they are nearby. Blacky cleverly manipulates Reddy into following him, hoping that Reddy will inadvertently lead Bowser back home. Reddy, driven by hunger, pursues the imagined feast but ultimately finds himself in a precarious situation when he steals a hen and is pursued by Bowser. In a twist of fate, Reddy loses the hen to a hawk, while Bowser, guided by his instincts and the sound of his master, eventually reunites with Farmer Brown's boy. The story concludes with Bowser returning home, celebrated and pampered, while Reddy, having missed his chance, learns that his cleverness does not always guarantee success. The tale emphasizes themes of loyalty, the consequences of trickery, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

By Thornton W Burgess · First published 1919 · Genre: Children's Literature, Animal Fiction, Adventure · 24,566 words

First lines

Though great or small the matter prove Be faithful in whate'er you do. 'Tis thus and only thus you may To others and yourself be true. - Bowser the Hound

Old Man Coyote is full of tricks. People with such clever wits as his usually are full of tricks. On the other hand Bowser the Hound isn't tricky at all. He just goes straight ahead with the thing he has to do and does it in the most earnest way. Not being tricky himself, he sometimes forgets to watch out for tricks in others.

What this Textopian page supports

Bowser the Hound is listed on Textopian as a novel by Thornton W Burgess, dated 1919 CE.

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

Work type: Novel
Author: Thornton W Burgess
Date: 1919 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Animal Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy, Moral Tale
Length: 24,566 words
Structure: 1 section, 314 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Children's Literature — The book is primarily aimed at a young audience, featuring themes and narratives suitable for children.
Animal Fiction — The story revolves around animal characters, particularly focusing on a hound, which is a common trope in this genre.
Adventure — The plot likely includes elements of adventure as the characters navigate their environment and face challenges.
Fantasy — The narrative may incorporate fantastical elements typical of children's stories, enhancing the imaginative experience.