True Grit by Charles Portis brought me many hours of reading pleasure. The book was first published in 1968. Two movies of the same title have also been produced. The first one, staring John Wayne and Kim Darby was released in 1969, and the second in 2010 staring Jeff Bridges and Hailee Steinfield. I saw both movies, preferring the John Wayne version. The movie, particularly the John Wayne production, follows the book quite closely, so as I was reading I could picture each scene, not only by the author’s vivid descriptions, but also from my memory of seeing the scenes on the big screen. It is one of my all-time favorite stories.
The story takes place in western Arkansas and in Indian Territory, 1873. Mattie Ross, 14, who lives with her mother and siblings near Dardanelle, Arkansas, seeks justice for her father’s murder. The man who killed him, Tom Chaney, worked for her father, but killed him when they were in Fort Smith on a business trip. Mattie travels to Fort Smith in search of someone with grit, someone who could help her bring the murderer to justice. She finds Deputy Marshall Rooster Cogburn, a hard-drinking, irreverent, one-eyed man who reluctantly takes on the job. Another man, a Texas Ranger also seeks the outlaw on another matter. Much to Mattie’s dismay, the Marshall allows the Ranger to join them on their quest.
The story is told in first person by Mattie, but is recounted decades later. Mattie is an intelligent, determined girl, wise beyond her years and fearless in her quest to avenge her father’s death. The banter between the three of them is extremely entertaining; in fact, all encounters with the girl are enjoyable. She has a quick, unflinching mind, spunk, and grit. It’s winter and not a comfortable time to travel, but she takes it in stride, uncomplaining. She’s wise, fair, and outspoken. A pure joy.
I highly recommend True Grit to anyone who loves a good western. I appreciated the authenticity, the description of clothing, of guns and equipment used, of the attitudes of the people, and revisiting the lawlessness of the period. I enjoyed the banter between Mattie and those she encountered. The book held my attention, made me chuckle, and even though I knew the ending from the movies, the colorful narrative kept me riveted to Mattie’s determination to seek justice.
I’ve read True Grit before and loved it but I’d like to read it again. Hoping for it to be on Kindle.
Thanks for your comment, Irene. Yes, it is on Kindle. My son gave me a print copy for Christmas. It’s with the original cover, printed in 1968. What is shown on Amazon is another cover, but Bruce copied the original cover for me so I could use it for my blog.
I ordered it for my Kindle. I’ve noticed the varying covers, too.
Good! You’ll love this book, Irene.