Book Review Alfred Ollivants Bob, Son of Battle The Last Gray Dog of Kenmuir (New York Review Childrens Collection)

Few books capture the raw beauty of the countryside and the fierce loyalty of dogs quite like Bob, Son of Battle by Alfred Ollivant. Originally published in 1898, this novel has endured as a beloved classic, recently revived in the New York Review Children’s Collection. Set in the rugged Scottish borderlands, the story weaves a gripping tale of rivalry, betrayal, and redemption—all centered around a remarkable sheepdog and the people whose lives he touches.

If you love animal stories with deep emotional stakes, complex characters, and a richly atmospheric setting, this book is a must-read. But be warned: Ollivant’s tale is not a lighthearted romp. It’s a story that lingers, one that forces readers to confront themes of morality, pride, and the consequences of vengeance.

Bob, Son of Battle follows the lives of two rival shepherds in the fictional village of Kenmuir: Adam McAdam and James Moore. At the heart of their feud is Bob, the last of the legendary gray sheepdogs of Kenmuir, and his rival, Red Wull, a vicious but fiercely loyal dog owned by McAdam.

The novel unfolds through the eyes of young David Moore, James’s son, who idolizes Bob and dreams of one day owning a dog as skilled and noble. But tensions escalate when McAdam’s bitterness and Red Wull’s aggression threaten the peace of the community. The story builds toward a climactic confrontation, testing the bonds between man and dog, father and son, and rival neighbors.

Without giving away major spoilers, the novel’s power lies in its emotional depth—joy, sorrow, and the inevitable reckoning that comes from unchecked grudges.

Bob is more than just a dog; he’s a symbol of loyalty, intelligence, and quiet strength. Unlike Red Wull, whose aggression is fueled by his master’s hatred, Bob embodies the ideal working dog—disciplined, brave, and deeply connected to his human companions. His relationship with David is particularly touching, illustrating the bond between a boy and his dog.

McAdam is one of literature’s most compelling antagonists—not because he’s purely evil, but because his flaws are painfully human. His pride and resentment toward James Moore blind him to the love he could have shared with his own son, young Tammas. His downfall is as inevitable as it is heartbreaking.

Red Wull is a fascinating study in how animals reflect their owners’ nature. Where Bob is calm and disciplined, Wull is ferocious and unpredictable—a direct result of McAdam’s influence. Their dynamic raises questions about nurture vs. nature, making Wull as much a victim as a villain.

Ollivant’s prose is both lyrical and rugged, mirroring the untamed landscape of the Scottish borders. His descriptions of the moors, the sheep-herding trials, and the tense standoffs between characters are vivid and immersive.

The dialogue, written in a thick Scottish dialect, adds authenticity but may require some adjustment for modern readers. However, once acclimated, the dialect enhances the novel’s charm, making the characters feel real and lived-in.

At its core, Bob, Son of Battle is about:

• Pride and Its Consequences – McAdam’s downfall stems from his inability to let go of grudges.
• Loyalty vs. Blind Obedience – Bob’s intelligence contrasts with Wull’s destructive devotion.
• Fatherhood and Legacy – Both McAdam and Moore grapple with what it means to raise a son (or, in Bob’s case, a successor).

The novel doesn’t shy away from dark moments, making it a thought-provoking read rather than a simple feel-good animal tale.

I went into Bob, Son of Battle expecting a classic dog story, but what I got was something far richer. The emotional weight of the final chapters left me stunned—this isn’t a book you forget easily. Ollivant doesn’t offer easy resolutions, and that’s what makes it so powerful.

Fans of Lassie Come-Home or White Fang will appreciate the deep animal-human bonds in Bob, Son of Battle. However, Ollivant’s novel is grittier and more morally complex than many classic animal stories. It shares thematic similarities with Where the Red Fern Grows in its exploration of loyalty and loss.

• Deep, multifaceted characters

• Stunning atmospheric writing

• A story that challenges the reader emotionally

• The heavy dialect may be initially difficult for some

• The pacing is slower by modern standards

• Animal lovers who enjoy stories with well-developed canine characters

• Fans of classic literature looking for a lesser-known gem

• Readers who appreciate morally complex tales with no easy answers

"There’s none so blind as them that won’t see."
"A man’s dog is his mirror."

Originally published in the late 19th century, the novel reflects rural Scottish life and the importance of sheepdogs in farming communities. Its revival in the New York Review Children’s Collection introduces it to a new generation, proving its timeless appeal.

Bob, Son of Battle is more than a children’s book—it’s a profound exploration of human (and canine) nature. If you’re ready for a story that will challenge and move you, this is one to add to your shelf.

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Discussion Questions for Readers:

• How does Ollivant use animal characters to reflect human traits?
• Do you think McAdam could have redeemed himself, or was his fate inevitable?
• What does the novel say about the relationship between pride and destruction?

Have you read Bob, Son of Battle? What were your thoughts? Let’s discuss in the comments!

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