In Duck-Footed Hound, Jim Kjelgaard has crafted a heartwarming story about a young boy and his loyal canine companion. The protagonist, Chris, is a determined and resourceful young man who forms a bond with a unique dog named Drake. Drake, being part hound and part duck, possesses a distinctive ability to track and locate injured animals in the wild.

Kjelgaard's vivid descriptions of the rugged mountainous landscape serve as a backdrop for the adventurous journey Chris and Drake embark on. The author's skilled storytelling transports the reader into a world of danger, excitement, and discovery as the unlikely duo faces challenges and obstacles along the way.

The relationship between Chris and Drake is the highlight of the story, as their bond deepens through shared experiences and mutual trust. The loyalty and devotion they show towards each other is truly heartening and serves as a testament to the power of friendship between man and animal.

Overall, Duck-Footed Hound is a captivating and enjoyable read that will appeal to readers of all ages. Kjelgaard's skillful writing and engaging plot make this a timeless classic that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Book Description:
Old Joe was the biggest, fightingest, craftiest coon in the Creeping Hills. No one had ever been able to catch him; not even Precious Sue, a bluetick hound peerless in tracking down coons.

But Harky felt that this autumn the hunting would be different. Old Joe was in for trouble. Precious Sue had a pup who looked like a natural-born coon hunter. With his web-footed paws he was as skillful in the water as any coon. And on land, Duckfoot had a nose that beat every other hound hollow.

Harky had a few troubles of his own. First there was school. Miss Cathby was nice, but she was a teacher. She called Old Joe a raccoon. And she said he could not live forever because he was mortal.

Then there were girls. More specifically, there was Melinda—the bossiest, uppitiest young lady for miles around. And she wanted to hunt.

Jim Kjelgaard's story of people and hounds captures all the glory and excitement of coon hunting on a crisp autumn night. Marc Simont has illustrated the story with wit and brilliance.