Greyfriars Bobby (novel)
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| Author | Eleanor Atkinson |
|---|---|
| Publisher | A. L. Burt Company |
Publication date | 1912 |
| Publication place | United States |
| Media type | Print (hardcover) |
| Pages | 292 |
Greyfriars Bobby is a 1912 novel by Eleanor Atkinson based on the true story of the dog Greyfriars Bobby. The novel has been adapted into two films: Challenge to Lassie (1949) and Greyfriars Bobby (1961).[1] Both films starred Donald Crisp. This novel is written from the point-of-view of the dog, Bobby, and uses Scottish dialogue as the novel is set in Edinburgh, Scotland.
The book is written from the point of view of the titular dog. The main story of the book is directly adapted from the supposedly true Scottish story of Greyfriars Bobby.
Bobby spends much time with his master and unofficial owner, "Auld Jock" (Scots for "Old John"), creating a very strong emotional connection. They have an intense connection and Jock cares for Bobby very well—though Jock never bought Bobby. This creates problems later, because of Jock's having, in the eyes of the law, "stolen" an unlicensed dog. Eventually, Auld Jock dies. Bobby is in great distress, but a loyal dog will never leave its owner's side, even after death.
After his owner dies, Bobby is lost; he can barely function without his companion. Though his owner's body was identified by the man's given name, John Gray, and not as "Auld Jock", his nickname, people still tell Bobby to look for "Jock", which just worsens Bobby's pain. He is lost for a while, and a large reward is offered for his return. Eventually, Bobby finds Auld Jock's grave and guards it day and night. The pair are inseparable.[2][3]
