I am just having one of those weeks — seriously, it’s like my week is manifestation of Murphy’s Law, and the idea of me writing something new is laughable. So here’s a variation of a post I did a year ago — we’ve got some new regulars in the comments, and I’d like to hear what you all say.
Anyway. . .
This was asked awhile ago on some Facebook group I belong to and I thought the answers were interesting enough, I’d ask you:
If you can remember, what was the first book that destroyed you? (that is, which book left you an emotional wreck?)
For me, it was either: Where the Red Fern Grows (which I read most of several times, and all of a couple of times); The High King by Lloyd Alexander between the deaths and goodbyes, I still can’t do it dry-eyed; or Bridge to Terabithia — I can’t tell you anything about the plot (there were 2 kids, 1 girl and 1 boy, right?), the characters or anything, and I read it 2-4 times — all I can remember is emotional devastation.
Looking forward to hearing from you. Share the emotional scars we all know you have. 🙂
allysonyj
The earliest Book-induced tears I can remember were caused by the death of Ginger in Anna Sewell’s “Black Beauty”
HCNewton
Oh, sure. Somehow I avoided that one til my kids read it. But I can see that.
Bookstooge
Thankfully, I watched Bridge to Terebithia before reading the book, but even still, I just wasn’t ready for it.
As for others, nothing really sticks out. I know there have been books where I’ve felt gutted afterwards, but I’d have to do research to find out what they were. I tend to lightly “forget” unpleasant things like that 🙂
BrokenTune
The earliest book induced tears I can remember happened with a children’s book that I cannot remember the title of (and that is unlikely to ever have been translated to English). It was about a teddy that was well-loved until it became a bit tatty and then was left behind in the woods, where it had to fend for itself. (Spoiler: the parents did come back to look for it, found it, and repaired its lost buttons and stitching).
HCNewton
Probably haven’t read that, but have read similar stories, and yeah can see it getting right to the heart
Marjorie
Definitely “Old Yeller” by Fred Gipson. I was about 10-11 years old and got up early in the morning to finish it. I couldn’t go to school that day because I couldn’t stop sobbing.
HCNewton
Have avoided that book (and movie) my whole life… Probably denied myself a good experience, but also haven’t had to burn a sick day 🙂