In this classic originally published in 1903, Buck (part St. Bernard, part Scotch Shepard) is stolen from his comfortable life at Judge Miller's place in the Santa Clara valley. Little does he know, he is headed for the frozen Yukon, where the gold rush is in full swing, and dog sleds are the only form of transportation for the hordes that are arriving daily. Buck must adapt quickly to the harsh conditions and the new society of dogs that he's been thrust into. Buck's intelligence, courage, and strength are the only things on which he can rely as he fights to survive abuse from humans and attacks from animals to become a fierce leader. All the while, Buck is beginning to hear a deeper rumbling from the wild that calls to the deepest instinctual part of him.

The Call of the Wild was written as an adult book, but has many aspects that will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a relatively short story, told primarily from Buck's point of view. The humans in the book represent the best and worst qualities--some are kind and loving and stand up for the humane treatment of animals, while others are horribly abusive and selfish. While this is a book for those who care deeply for dogs, it is not for the faint of heart. Dogs are subjected to clubbing and starvation, and are mortally injured fighting amongst themselves. Many animals die, and so do some humans, but Buck's survival instincts and leadership qualities are admirable and inspiring. Younger readers may not understand Buck's primordial instincts calling him to live in the wild, but with guidance from an adult, they may truly enjoy this as an audio book or family read-aloud.

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