Westy Martin

by Percy Keese Fitzhugh

"Westy Martin" by Percy Keese Fitzhugh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the life of Westy Martin, a young boy and scout who grapples with the responsibilities and moral dilemmas that come with growing up. His adventure begins with an unfortunate hunting incident that leads him to question his understanding of nature and the laws surrounding it. The opening of "Westy Martin" introduces the main character, Westy, who experiences a moment of panic after hearing a gunshot in the woods. Despite being a member of the Boy Scouts and having aspirations of a grand adventure out West, he is faced with the stark reality of life and death when he discovers a wounded deer left suffering due to a poacher's carelessness. This encounter forces Westy to confront his feelings about hunting, responsibility, and the choices he must make as a scout. The situation escalates as Westy takes it upon himself to track down the hunter responsible, setting the stage for a moral journey that challenges his previous beliefs and promises.