Where the Red Fern Grows characters

Also known as Billy

Appears from the start

A poor farm boy of about ten growing up in the Ozark hills, consumed by a longing to own and hunt with a pair of coonhounds his family cannot afford. Hardworking, determined, and deeply loving toward animals, he is willing to labor for years to earn what he wants.

Appears from the start

Billy's father, a hardworking Ozark farmer struggling to provide for his family on poor land. Kind but burdened by poverty, he wishes he could give his children more than he can afford.

Appears from the start

Billy's mother, a caring and devout woman who worries for her children's safety and future and hopes for a better life than the hard hill country can offer them.

First appears in chapter 4

Billy's grandfather, who runs the country store and quietly helps Billy pursue his dream. Warm, shrewd, and proud of his grandson, he becomes Billy's ally and companion in the coon-hunting world.

First appears in chapter 8

One of the two redbone coonhound pups Billy raises, the larger and bolder of the pair. Powerful, brave, and utterly fearless in the hunt, he will follow a raccoon or face any danger without hesitation.

First appears in chapter 8

The smaller of Billy's two redbone coonhound pups, clever and gentle where her companion is bold. She possesses remarkable intelligence and cunning on the hunt, and the two dogs work together as an inseparable team.

First appears in chapter 13

One of two rough neighbor boys from the Pritchard family, known for being mean-spirited and looking for trouble. He and his brother challenge Billy over his dogs.

First appears in chapter 13

The younger of the two quarrelsome Pritchard brothers, taunting and troublesome, who with his brother draws Billy into a dangerous bet over his hounds.