Call of the Wild and White Fang (Wordsworth Classics)
Call of the Wild and White Fang (Wordsworth Classics)
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Book Summary
| With an Introduction and Notes by Lionel Kelly, University of Reading The Call of the Wild (1903) and White Fang (1906) are world famous animal stories. Set in Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, The Call of the Wild is about Buck, the magnificent cross-bred offspring of a St Bernard and a Scottish Collie. Stolen from his pampered life on a Californian estate and shipped to the Klondike to work as a sledge dog, he triumphs over his circumstances and becomes the leader of a wolf pack. The story records the decivilisation of Buck as he answers the call of the wild , an inherent memory of primeval origins to which he instinctively responds. In contrast, White Fang relates the tale of a wolf born and bred in the wild which is civilised by the master he comes to trust and love. The brutal world of the Klondike miners and their dogs is brilliantly evoked and Jack London s rendering of the sentient life of Buck and White Fang as they confront their destiny is enthralling and convincing. The deeper resonance of these stories derives from the author s use of the myth of the hero who survives by strength and courage, a powerful myth that still appeals to our collective unconscious. |
Language: English
Paperback: 230 pages
Publisher: Wordsworth Editions Ltd (1998)
ISBN-10: 1853260266
ISBN-13: 9781853260261
Genre: Classics
Size: 12.4 cm x 19.4 cm
Shipping Weight: 40 grams
Condition: New
Call of the Wild and White Fang (Wordsworth Classics)
Call of the Wild and White Fang (Wordsworth Classics) Book Description
Readers will discover two timeless tales by Jack London in this Wordsworth Classics edition. The Call of the Wild follows Buck, a strong cross‑breed stolen from a comfortable California home and forced into the harsh Klondike during the gold rush. He fights, adapts, and finally leads a wolf pack, answering an ancient call that lies deep within his blood. Meanwhile, White Fang tells the opposite journey: a wolf born in the wild learns trust and loyalty from a kind master, showing how civilization can tame even the fiercest spirit.
The story of Buck captures the raw power of nature and the instinct to survive. Fans of adventure will feel the bite of icy winds, the thud of sled runners, and the thrill of a primal howl. Throughout both novels, London paints the brutal world of miners and their dogs with vivid detail, making each scene feel alive. Moreover, the hero myth runs strong, reminding readers that courage and strength can overcome any adversity.
Additionally, Lionel Kelly’s introduction and scholarly notes add depth without overwhelming the reader. He explains historical context, literary themes, and the lasting impact of these classics. Therefore, even new readers can appreciate why these stories remain beloved over a century after their first publication.
Key Features of Call of the Wild and White Fang (Wordsworth Classics)
Inside this paperback you will find 230 pages of crisp, readable text. The edition measures 12.4 cm × 19.4 cm, making it easy to hold while traveling or reading at home. Because the book is printed on high‑quality paper, the words stay clear and the pages turn smoothly. Also, the ISBN‑13 (9781853260261) ensures you receive the exact edition described.
Furthermore, the book includes helpful footnotes that clarify archaic terms and regional slang. Readers can therefore follow the plot without pause. The introduction by a university professor offers insight into Jack London’s life and the gold‑rush era, enriching the reading experience.
Why Read This Book?
Many readers choose this volume for its blend of excitement and deeper meaning. The Call of the Wild challenges you to think about loyalty, survival, and the pull of instinct. White Fang, on the other hand, explores redemption, trust, and the possibility of change. Together, they provide a balanced view of nature versus nurture.
Meanwhile, the stories are short enough to finish in a weekend yet rich enough to spark discussion. This makes the book ideal for book clubs, classroom settings, or personal reflection. Because the themes are universal, each new reading reveals another layer of insight.
About This Book
Published by Wordsworth Editions Ltd in 1998, this new paperback edition offers classic literature at an affordable price. The English language text preserves Jack London’s original voice, while the added scholarly material enhances comprehension. Shipping weight is only 40 grams, so the book arrives light and ready to read. Discover the adventure, the struggle, and the triumph that have captivated readers for generations.
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