Summary

This is Jody’s Fawn by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings is a heartwarming story that highlights a young boy’s compassion and sense of responsibility toward a helpless animal. Jody, the protagonist, displays an empathetic and sensitive nature, feeling deeply for others’ pain, even animals.

The Incident with the Doe and Jody’s Father

The story begins with Jody’s father being bitten by a rattlesnake. To save his father’s life, Jody kills a doe and uses its liver and heart to draw the venom out of his father’s body. Though the act saves his father, it leaves the doe’s young fawn abandoned in the forest.

Jody feels a pang of guilt for killing the doe and leaving the fawn to starve. He is deeply troubled by the thought of the helpless creature and feels it is his responsibility to take care of the fawn since its mother was sacrificed for his father’s survival.

Jody’s Plea to Bring the Fawn Home

Jody discusses his concern with his father, who initially hesitates but eventually agrees with Jody’s reasoning. He tells Jody to get his mother’s permission.

Jody’s mother is surprised at his request. However, Jody explains the situation, emphasizing that it is only fair to take care of the fawn. Dr. Wilson supports Jody’s decision and persuades his mother to allow it. Jody promises to feed the fawn with his share of milk, which reassures his mother. She finally gives her consent, and Jody prepares to bring the fawn home.

Finding the Fawn in the Forest

Mill-wheel, a family friend, gives Jody a ride on his horse and drops him off at the forest. Alone in the dense and thorny woods, Jody searches for the fawn. After some effort, he finally finds the little creature hiding among the bushes.

The fawn is shy but eventually trusts Jody as he gently carries it in his arms. Holding the fawn tightly, Jody feels a sense of relief and joy, knowing he has saved it from starvation.

Bringing the Fawn Home

Jody brings the fawn home and feeds it milk from his hands. His parents are delighted to see the fawn and proud of Jody’s successful effort. The story concludes with Jody fulfilling his responsibility toward the young animal, showing his maturity and compassionate nature.

Conclusion of This is Jody’s Fawn

The story teaches values such as compassion, care, justice, and the moral responsibility of humans toward animals. It emphasizes that true kindness goes beyond merely feeling others’ pain—it involves taking meaningful action to relieve their suffering.