Where the Red Fern Grows is a beautiful story, but parents should be prepared for violence, death, and some deeply emotional scenes, particularly involving animals.

Billy saves for years to purchase two hunting dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, and much of the story centers around coon hunting. Raccoons are chased, treed, and killed by the dogs, and there are descriptions of hunting and animal fights that may be difficult for sensitive children. The dogs also encounter dangerous animals, including a violent fight with a mountain lion.

There is also a particularly disturbing accidental human death. During a confrontation involving Billy and the Pritchard boys, one of the boys falls on an axe and dies. Billy is deeply affected by what happens. Parents may want to talk through this scene with younger readers, especially since it happens rather suddenly.

The most emotionally difficult portion comes near the end. Old Dan is severely injured during the mountain lion attack and dies. Little Ann becomes overwhelmed by the loss of her companion, stops eating, loses her will to live, and eventually dies beside Old Dan's grave. These scenes are heartbreaking and could be especially difficult for children who are sensitive to animal death or have experienced the loss of a pet.

There are occasional examples of poor behavior, including fighting, teasing, pride, and children making unwise choices. However, these behaviors are generally not celebrated, and consequences are often clearly shown.

Christian parents should also know that the story contains references to God and prayer. Billy prays and believes God helps him throughout his journey. While we appreciated seeing faith acknowledged so naturally, some of Billy's conclusions about God's direct involvement in particular events may provide an opportunity for parents to discuss prayer, God's providence, and how we discern His will through a biblical lens.

Overall, the primary concerns are hunting violence, the accidental death of a child, animal suffering, and the heartbreaking deaths of the dogs. This is not a reason for us to avoid the book, but parents should know these moments are coming and be prepared to support sensitive or younger children through them.