It's the 1860s, and 13-year-old Travis lives in a log cabin on the Texas frontier with his parents and little brother. It's a hard life, but they're happy with what they've got.

One day a dog strays into Birdsong Creek, at the same time Pa leaves on a cattle drive for much-needed cash. Travis is left behind to provide for and protect his brother and mother. At first he wants to drive the big, ugly, thieving dog away, but Old Yeller is cunning, and a clever dog can help Travis protect his family from danger while Pa is away.

But can Travis protect Old Yeller from the bears, bulls, and wolves that roam the Texas prairie?

This Newbery Honor-winning story about a boy who grows to love and depend on a stray dog is considered by many to be the greatest children's dog story of all time.