Kildee House
📘 About This Book
When Jerome Kildee, a solitary man, builds a home in a redwood forest in California, he takes in some skunks and raccoons, but as they begin to multiply, Kildee looks to two human neighbors for help.
📖 Summary
Published in 1953 and spanning 209 pages, Rutherford George Montgomery's Kildee House is a delightful children's story set deep within the magnificent redwood forests of California. The narrative centers on Jerome Kildee, a solitary man who deliberately chooses a life away from the hustle and bustle of human society. He seeks peace, quiet, and solitude among the towering trees, deciding to build his unique home right inside the hollow base of a giant redwood tree. For a man who values his own company, the tranquil forest seems like the ultimate sanctuary where he can live undisturbed by the modern world. However, Jerome's quiet existence is soon delightfully interrupted by the local wildlife. The redwood forest is teeming with nature, and before long, Jerome finds himself playing host to some unexpected woodland visitors. He takes in a few skunks and raccoons, offering them shelter and forming a gentle bond with the creatures. To Jerome, sharing his giant treehouse with these animals feels natural and harmonious, as he respects the wilderness and enjoys their quiet presence. Yet, nature has its own plans regarding population growth. As time passes, the skunks and raccoons begin to multiply. What started as a small, manageable handful of animal companions slowly turns into a bustling community of critters living inside and around Kildee House. The sheer volume of animals creates logistical challenges for Jerome, pushing the solitary man out of his comfort zone. As the situation with the multiplying wildlife escalates beyond what one person can easily manage, Jerome realizes he cannot handle the growing menagerie entirely on his own. Looking for a way to restore balance to his unique living arrangement, Jerome decides to look to two human neighbors for help. This outreach bridges the gap between Jerome's isolated lifestyle and the surrounding community. Through his interactions with these neighbors, the story explores themes of community, the delicate balance of nature, and the complexities of human-animal relationships. Readers are treated to a charming narrative that highlights the beauty of the California redwoods while examining how solitude intersects with the responsibilities of sharing space with the natural world. Kildee House remains a classic piece of mid-century children's literature, capturing the imagination with its vivid setting and endearing characters.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Engaging and vivid setting in the California redwoods
Heartwarming interactions between a human and forest animals
Thoughtful themes regarding community and nature
Appealing narrative style suitable for children's stories
⚠️ Cons
May feature dated elements due to its 1953 publication year
Limited human character interactions early in the story
✍️ About the Author
❓ FAQ
Who is the author of Kildee House? +
The book was written by Rutherford George Montgomery.
When was Kildee House published? +
It was published in the year 1953.
Where is the story set? +
The story is set in a redwood forest in California.
What kind of animals does Jerome Kildee take in? +
He takes in skunks and raccoons.
How many pages long is the book? +
The book spans 209 pages.
