Bedside Lamp English Learning Reader III: The Call of the Wild (Pure English Version)

Author: Jack London (USA)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features: The Call of the Wild is Jack London's most celebrated novel. The story primarily narrates the journey of Buck, a strong and fierce wolf dog, as he returns from human civilization to the primitive life of a wolf pack. Buck is a 140-pound, exceptionally robust dog. He originally lived a luxurious life in the home of a judge but was later stolen by the judge's gardener and sold to a post office, then sent to the harsh cold regions of Alaska to pull sleds for mail delivery. Buck was first sold to two French Canadians. The dogs they purchased were not only subjected to cruel abuse by humans but also constantly fought and killed each other among themselves for dominance within the pack. Due to his extraordinary strength, intelligence, and bravery, Buck eventually defeated Spitz to become the leader of the pack. He had several owners before being taken in by John Thornton. It was when Buck was severely beaten and near death by the brutal master Hal that Thornton saved him and cared for his injuries with great attention. Under Thornton's meticulous care, Buck recovered quickly, and a sincere bond developed between them. Buck was extremely loyal to Thornton and risked his life twice to save him. When Thornton bet with others, Buck desperately pulled a sled carrying a thousand pounds of salt, earning Thornton a significant amount of money. Unfortunately, during the gold rush, Thornton was killed by Native Americans. In a fit of rage, Buck killed several Native Americans to avenge his master. At this point, his benefactor was dead, and he felt he had nothing left to cling to in this human society. Moreover, for some time, a mysterious call had echoed in the wilderness, drawing him. In the end, he responded to this call and entered the forest, joining the wolves and living a life as a primitive animal. However, he never forgot his old friend and still visited his master's grave regularly.