White Fang

You cannot beat the classics

There is graphic brutality and realistc interpetation of the intellect and soul of a wolf/dog in changing scenarios. London, Hemingway, Conrad, and even Mark Twain were not politically or culturally correct for this time. Perhaps that shows my hypocrisy in shunning the excessive vulgarity and perverse writing of most popular authors. Neither barbarism or profanity can make up for a poorly woven tale. Jack London was a true craftsman in the written word. This narrative starts out in a desolate, cold, fightening hunt in in which men are the prey. Only a great author can completely flip the narrative and have you cheering for the villian in the second and third act.

8 people found this helpful

Who's the animal: Man or Wolf?

This story is considered a classic for good reasons. Published over a century ago, the story remains timeless. It also offers glimpse into the past, as Jack London's descriptions of northern life, and in particular the life of First Nations people at the time, is fairly accurate from all accounts.

It refreshing to see how a masterful author can handle cruelty and violence without resulting to the usual graphic descriptions of today. Make no mistake, this is a story about a wolf cub at a time when society was much less predisposed to kindness. It stands to reason this story doesn't follow a Disney like pattern.

What the story does so well, however, is to illustrate the cruelty of certain men. This cruelty stands side by side in comparison to the supposed cruelty of the wolf, which is judged negatively at every turn by "civilized man". It does provide good food for thought.

John Lee did an excellent job. Even if you've read the book, it's worth listening to the audio book just for the performance. If you're not familiar with the story, then I can only mention that this really is a "must read" novel. You won't be disappointed.

64 people found this helpful

A different point of view

A delightful yet informative story from the perspective of a canine, and the mistreatments that many of its kind went through

4 people found this helpful

Top-rate story and storytelling

Would you consider the audio edition of White Fang to be better than the print version?

I would consider it so, yes. the narrator really brings the words to life, in a way I didn't think possible.

What other book might you compare White Fang to and why?

The Call of the Wild. the stories, and the point of view from which they are told, is unique and fascinating.

Which scene was your favorite?

The first meeting between White Fang and the "Love Master" - no spoilers here, though

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I did. This is the first novel as a child that I ever read, and listening to it tok me back to third grade, and the wonder I felt as I realized that a story - jut words, mind you, no pictures - could, really could, take me to another place.

Any additional comments?

This is a must-have in every library, and every Audible collection.

18 people found this helpful

Not just for my Kids or my Youth

I absolutely love the prose of Jack London. I wonder exactly how many people have died, pulled North to the Wild by the romantic pen of Jack London. I finished a while back (Dietz's version) and was crying as I listened to it with my kids.

I've recently become interested in listening to several classics by different readers. London was one of the first I've done this with, but it worked well so he won't be the last.

John Lee gives a very solid reading of this classic. I think this is probably the superior audio of White Fang. While I like Dietz (and haven't done anything but sampled Thomley), Lee's reading is straight forward and easily managed at hyper-audio speeds (2.5x or faster). The only downside of a narration by Lee, is it is sort of like watching a movie with Kevin Bacon. They guy is everywhere and it is weird to hear his voice in so many places.

58 people found this helpful

Great book. It pulls you in

Would you consider the audio edition of White Fang to be better than the print version?

I think they are about the same

What was one of the most memorable moments of White Fang?

The ice flow incident when he would not move and was saved

Which scene was your favorite?

The chicken coup scene where he proves he is obedient and smart

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I think this book makes you get a realistic picture of men and how they treat each other and animals. It is both a little depressing and encouraging.

Any additional comments?

This was one of the first books my Grandpa got for me. I have read or listened to it many times

3 people found this helpful

Amazing

Captivating and enjoyable story. I felt the fear and the anger as well as loyalty and love. Beautifully written and narrated. Struggled with one chapter because I really hated what was happening. That being said, glad I pushed through and read the whole story

3 people found this helpful

A wolf's life

Prepare to cry and laugh listening to this superb rendition of the book.
The 1990's movie has nothing to do with the book, so don't expect a similar story.

3 people found this helpful

The fate of domesticated wolf that inducs pathos

If you could sum up White Fang in three words, what would they be?

Courage to live

Who was your favorite character and why?

Weeden Scott, he has love for White Fang

Which character – as performed by John Lee – was your favorite?

All of them well performed by John Lee

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When White Fang learned love.

Any additional comments?

I was encouraged by White Fang's way of vital living . He learned how to adjust his life with different masters and different circumstances.

6 people found this helpful

Great reading

This is one of my favorite books of all time. I own a few audio versions and this is by far the best. Very well done.

14 people found this helpful