Down from the Mountain

by James MacKrell

Down from the Mountain is being hailed as one of the best new Dog Stories of our time. Set in the mountains of Montana, it is a story of bravery and loyalty and it celebrates the connection between animals and their people. This is Bandit's story, an Australian Shepherd who, due to unforeseen circumstances, is raised in the wild by a wolf-dog named Sheena before returning to his intended home with rancher, Javier Coronado. It is a gripping tale that will keep the pages turning. Down from the Mountain is an Adventure, Love Story and Action Novel all wrapped up into one.

Genres: Fiction, Action, Adventure, Dogs

364 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

James MacKrell (1937-) was born in Little Rock, Arkansas and grew up in southern Louisiana. His career began in Radio like his father before him, but evolved into music publishing with the late Henry Mancini who eventually took him to Los Angles, California. His career eventually expanded to encompass every aspect of the show business industry, from local and national commercials to hosting charity specials and even guest starring in popular television series and feature films. His first book, "Down from the Mountain," celebrates his passion for the spiritual connection between animals and people, as well as his admiration for the American rural way of life.

Reviews

[Stephanie Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an animal lover, I enjoyed the author's imaginary insight into conversations between the animals in this book. It was an unusual approach - a good story. I recommend it.

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The opening chapters are a tale of animal survival in the wilderness of Montana. In later chapters, survival continues as a theme as humans enter the conflict with actions that portray the best and worst of humanity.

MacKrell's writing style engulfs the reader.

"The land seemed alive, the grasses grew green and tall, and the butterflies zipped around as if chasing the bees flitting from flower to flower. Wildflowers in full bloom, the lupine, the fairy slippers, the shooting stars, lent an artist's palate to the rising meadows. A gentle wind caused the taller grasses to sway like dancers and the trees, rocked by the higher and stronger winds, swayed to the beat of an unseen drummer."

"Fear eats at the human psyche like ocean waves erode a beach. Nothing is noticeable in the short term, but over the weeks or months or years the constant, pounding surf wears down everything it touches."

"About ten feet up the hill and right in front of the crippled man stood Sheena. Tall and proud with her timber wolf mate at her side, she lowered her head and stared straight into the eyes of the man she hated more than anyone else in the world.
Her white face housed her yellow eyes as they turned nearly crimson. Her fangs dripped with revulsion Her head was lowered in the attack position."

Dog lovers will not be disappointed by the tale of Bandit the Australian Shepherd. The story of loyalty and compassion draws the reader into conflicts of intense good versus evil. This is a book that should not be missed.

[Sande Fitzpatrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story about Australian Shepherds as working dogs in Montana show how they are more that animals but part of families. Sad as it shows the inhuman way some animals are treated and die from the treatment. Some of the parts are very sad to read but your heart is warmed by others that show how animal and people pull together.

[Bill Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like dogs, and particularly Australian Shepherds...you will love "Down from the Mountain! Long time television host Jim MacKrell delivers a 'best in show!'

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the way the animals narrates the story. Very good read.

[Alison]

kindle 364