Greyfriars Bobby

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Greyfriars Bobby

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

A heartwarming classic about a loyal Skye terrier in Victorian Edinburgh whose devotion to his deceased master inspires an entire community. This timeless tale explores themes of loyalty, grief, and the enduring bond between humans and animals, set against the historic backdrop of the Grassmarket and Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in Victorian Edinburgh in 1858, *Greyfriars Bobby* by Eleanor Atkinson tells the poignant tale of a Skye terrier named Bobby and his unwavering devotion to his master, Auld Jock. The story begins when Auld Jock, a farm laborer, falls ill and dies, leaving Bobby alone in the bustling city. Despite the temptation of a new life and the affection of local children, Bobby refuses to leave his master's grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard. He establishes a daily routine of visiting the grave, sleeping under a table-tomb, and waiting for his owner's return. Initially, the local community, including caretaker Mr. Brown and restaurant owner Mr. Traill, views Bobby's presence as scandalous. However, they eventually come to admire his fidelity. The narrative follows Bobby through changing seasons, witnessing the transformation of the kirkyard from a place of decay into a sanctuary of love. His steadfast presence inspires profound compassion in those around him, turning the neighborhood into a place of remembrance. The story highlights the deep bond between Bobby and Auld Jock, noting that while Bobby was a spirited, adventurous dog who loved chasing cats and playing with children, he was fundamentally a creature of loyalty. When separated from his master, he refused to leave the graveyard, even as the community debated his fate. The narrative culminates in the visit of Queen Victoria and the funding of a memorial fountain by Lady Burdett-Coutts. The monument, designed as a fountain with a bronze statue of Bobby looking through the kirkyard gate, symbolizes the idea that true loyalty transcends death. Through Bobby's life, the book proves that devotion can transform a society, proving that even a small, shaggy terrier can inspire a city and leave an imperishable legacy of love.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks2/eleanor-atkinson_greyfriars-bobby.epub

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data/epubs/url-98e6aacd2d28215d.epub

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