Woody’s Words
Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Grows
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Published by Calkins Creek (2025-09-09)
The life of Woodrow “Woody” Wilson Rawls, the author of the children’s classic Where the Red Fern Grows, is revealed in this nonfiction picture book for ages 7 - 10 that celebrates persistence, creativity, and chasing dreams.
When Woody Rawls read The Call of the Wild, a classic novel about a stolen mistreated dog and a kindly man, his life was forever changed. Maybe it was because he loved his own dog, or maybe it was because the story reached deep into his heart and stayed there. From then on, Woody was determined to learn to write and become a teller of tales.
Woody didn't care that he couldn’t afford pen and paper. He would use a stick in the sand if he had to. Woody trusted his heart and used his imagination to create his stories, which he shared with Rowdy, his trusty hound. Woody never stopped writing even when it was hard to and when life got in the way. He went on to write several novels and publish two books for children– including the timeless classic Where the Red Fern Grows. This story of hard work creatively presented by author Lisa Rogers and illustrator Susan Reagan will resonate with young readers and adults alike.
When Woody Rawls read The Call of the Wild, a classic novel about a stolen mistreated dog and a kindly man, his life was forever changed. Maybe it was because he loved his own dog, or maybe it was because the story reached deep into his heart and stayed there. From then on, Woody was determined to learn to write and become a teller of tales.
Woody didn't care that he couldn’t afford pen and paper. He would use a stick in the sand if he had to. Woody trusted his heart and used his imagination to create his stories, which he shared with Rowdy, his trusty hound. Woody never stopped writing even when it was hard to and when life got in the way. He went on to write several novels and publish two books for children– including the timeless classic Where the Red Fern Grows. This story of hard work creatively presented by author Lisa Rogers and illustrator Susan Reagan will resonate with young readers and adults alike.
Book Details
Format:
Hardcover
Price:
24.99 CAD / 18.99 USD
Published: 2025-09-09
ISBN: 9781662680298
Imprint:
Calkins Creek
Page Count: 32
Trim Size: 9 x 11
Grades:
Grades 2-5
Ages:
7-10 years
"Woody's Words is an inspiring story of chasing your dreams, perseverance, grit, and love. I enjoyed every bit of it. Highly recommended!" — Lynda Mullaly Hunt, New York Times bestselling author of Fish in aTree
"'Dreams can come true' is one of Woody’s messages to young people --and to everyone. Through Woody and Sophie's determination, dreams did come true. We wish, through this beautiful book and story of his life, that children will continue to be inspired by Woody and his stories." — Mary Wedig and Jane Zwiefelhofer, nieces of Sophie Rawls
"My uncle, Woodrow Wilson Rawls, was a tall, thin, mild-mannered man, larger than life to me as a child. He always had a story of his adventures to tell, whether in my Grandma’s living room, around a hunting campfire, or waiting patiently for fish to bite. I am very proud to be a member of his family and carry fondly his stories and memories with me today. I hope readers of this book come to admire him and his stories as much as I do." — Patti Rawls, Woody's niece