Jim Kjelgaard
The Duck-footed Hound
"The Duck-footed Hound" by Jim Kjelgaard is a children's novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around a young boy named Harky Mundee and his adventures with Precious Sue, a skilled bluetick hound, and Duckfoot, her unusual pup who possesses webbed feet. The book captures the excitement of coon hunting in the Creeping Hills, focusing on the dynamics of nature, animals, and the challenges they face. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Old Joe, a crafty raccoon who has eluded the best hunters thanks to his intelligence and agility. Harky, the young protagonist, finds himself navigating life's challenges, balancing school, girls, and his passion for hunting, while also worrying about his beloved hound Precious Sue and her potential offspring. As the narrative unfolds, Duckfoot is revealed, who inherits not only Precious Sue's traits but also a unique ability that sets him apart, suggesting an intriguing blend of adventure and enchantment as Harky and his dog confront the mysteries of the wild.