First Racoon

The big day has come, and Billy has treed his first coon.  Now the problem is, the tree is absolutely huge!  He tries to cut it down but he can't.  He's just a small boy and cutting it down is too much for him to handle.  I always felt bad during this part because he has worked so hard, and now can't get the coon down.  But his good old grandpa comes down with a great idea to keep the coon in the tree.  I always love how he helps him out when he's in a tough situation.  Do you have anyone like that in your life?  I also love Billy's determination and grit!  I don't know if there is a character that I have ever read about that is like him.  In my mind, everyone should have to go out into the woods and cut down and big tree like him.  If you have ever done it before, you know it isn't an easy task.  You have to be determined to get that done.  If everyone had the same traits as him, they would all be very successful.  How would you describe Billy after these first few chapters? 

I've written a lot.  Now it's your turn!

Dog Training

I always enjoy this chapter.  I find it interesting to find out how he caught the raccoon.  When I first read this book, I didn't think his grandfather's trick would work, but it did!  When his dad killed the coon, I always felt bad.  I guess I have a soft side!  I also love how hard he worked to train his dogs.  I think it is always important to put the work in when it comes to training his dogs.  I want you to make a prediction and say if his work will pay off.  Will his dogs be good hunting dogs or not?  Why do you think they will be?  Let me know any of your other thoughts on this.