Bless the Beasts & Children is a coming-of-age novel by Glendon Swarthout that was first published in 1970. The novel follows a group of troubled boys at a summer camp who come together to save a herd of buffalo from being slaughtered. The book was adapted into a movie in 1971, directed by Stanley Kramer, and has since become a cult classic. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the book and movie in depth, examining their themes, characters, and cultural impact, as well as providing resources for parents, fans, and those interested in exploring the world of Bless the Beasts & Children.
Book summary and analysis
The novel centers around six boys who have been sent to a summer camp called Box Canyon Boys Camp, located in Arizona. The boys are considered misfits and outcasts, each dealing with their own personal issues and struggles. They form a tight-knit group called the Bedwetters, led by John Cotton, a charismatic and sensitive boy.
The Bedwetters discover that a nearby herd of buffalo is being slaughtered for sport, and they decide to embark on a daring mission to save the animals. Throughout their journey, the boys face various challenges and obstacles, but they ultimately grow and learn from their experiences. The novel explores themes such as the loss of innocence, the power of friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Movie summary and comparison to the book
The film adaptation of Bless the Beasts & Children, released in 1971, stays largely faithful to the source material. It follows the same basic plot, with the Bedwetters setting out on their quest to save the buffalo. However, there are some notable differences between the book and movie.
One major difference is the portrayal of the camp’s staff. In the book, they are depicted as more sympathetic and understanding, while in the movie, they are shown as strict and authoritarian figures. Additionally, some scenes and subplots from the novel are omitted or altered in the film adaptation. Despite these differences, the movie captures the essence of the book and remains a powerful coming-of-age story.
Parent guide for Bless the Beasts & Children
Bless the Beasts & Children deals with some mature themes, such as bullying, emotional trauma, and animal cruelty, which may not be suitable for younger readers or viewers. Parents should be aware that both the book and movie contain some strong language and violence. It is recommended for ages 14 and up, depending on the individual child’s maturity level and ability to handle sensitive subject matter.
When and where the story takes place
The story of Bless the Beasts & Children is set in the late 1960s in Arizona. The majority of the novel takes place at Box Canyon Boys Camp and its surrounding wilderness. The setting plays a crucial role in the story, as the rugged and unforgiving landscape mirrors the challenges and personal growth that the characters experience throughout their journey.
Film locations and how to visit them
The film adaptation of Bless the Beasts & Children was shot on location in various parts of Arizona, including Sedona, the Oak Creek Canyon, and the Coconino National Forest. These stunning natural landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for the movie’s adventure and coming-of-age themes. Fans of the film can visit these locations as part of a road trip or guided tour, which often include stops at other iconic Arizona landmarks, such as the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley.
Who’s who: Character profiles and connections
Bless the Beasts & Children features a diverse cast of characters, each with their unique quirks and personal struggles. The Bedwetters are:
- John Cotton: The unofficial leader of the group, John is sensitive, intelligent, and compassionate.
- Lawrence Teft III: A rebellious and resourceful boy, Teft is the group’s strategist and planner.
- Samuel Shecker: The son of a famous comedian, Shecker is overweight and insecure, but has a keen sense of humor.
- Gerald Goodenow: A timid and introverted boy, Gerald longs for acceptance and friendship.
- Lally 1 and Lally 2: Identical twins who are quiet and somewhat mysterious, the Lally brothers are fiercely loyal to the group.
There are also several supporting characters, including camp staff and the buffalo hunters, who play important roles in the story.
Memorable quotes and their significance
There are numerous memorable quotes from both the book and movie that highlight the themes and emotions of the story. Some examples include:
- “We are all of us doomed to spend our lives watching a movie of our lives – we are always acting on what has just finished happening.” This quote, spoken by John Cotton, emphasizes the theme of introspection and the struggle to understand our past actions and experiences.
- “The truth is, we’re all monsters, and if we don’t learn to control our monstrous sides, we’ll become the very things we hate.” This powerful statement reflects the novel’s exploration of human nature and the importance of self-reflection and growth.
The iconic soundtrack by Barry De Vorzon and Perry Botkin Jr.
The film adaptation of Bless the Beasts & Children features an unforgettable soundtrack composed by Barry De Vorzon and Perry Botkin Jr. The title song, “Bless the Beasts and the Children,” was performed by the Carpenters and became a hit. The song’s lyrics and melody perfectly capture the emotional journey of the characters and have made it a timeless classic.
Curiosities and lesser-known facts about the book and movie
- Author Glendon Swarthout was inspired to write Bless the Beasts & Children after reading a newspaper article about a buffalo hunt in Arizona.
- Swarthout’s son, Miles, co-wrote the screenplay for the film adaptation with his father.
- The movie was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Original Song for the title track, “Bless the Beasts and the Children.”
Tips for cosplay and dressing like your favorite characters
Dressing up as your favorite character from Bless the Beasts & Children can be a fun way to celebrate your love for the story. Consider wearing vintage 1960s clothing, such as jeans, plaid shirts, and hiking boots, to emulate the style of the Bedwetters. Additionally, props like toy rifles, binoculars, and camping gear can help complete the look.
Glendon Swarthout: Biography and literary works
Glendon Swarthout (1918-1992) was an American author known for his diverse range of novels, which often explored themes of human nature, morality, and the American West. Some of his other notable works include The Shootist, The Homesman, and They Came to Cordura. Swarthout’s writing has been described as evocative, powerful, and thought-provoking.
Stanley Kramer: Filmography and other media
Stanley Kramer (1913-2001) was an influential American film director and producer known for his socially-conscious films. Some of his other notable works include Judgment at Nuremberg, Inherit the Wind, and Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. Kramer’s movies often tackled controversial subjects and were praised for their powerful storytelling and compelling performances.
The ending of Bless the Beasts & Children explained
The ending of Bless the Beasts & Children sees the Bedwetters successfully release the buffalo from their pen, only to realize that the animals are too accustomed to captivity to escape on their own. Despite their best efforts, the boys are unable to save the buffalo, and they are ultimately captured by the hunters. However, their experience has profoundly changed them, and they return to camp with a newfound sense of purpose and camaraderie.
Possibilities for a remake, sequel, or spin-off
Given the enduring popularity of Bless the Beasts & Children, it is possible that a remake or adaptation could be produced in the future. A modern retelling of the story could explore contemporary themes and update the characters and setting while maintaining the core message of friendship, growth, and standing up for what is right.
Similar media to Bless the Beasts & Children
If you enjoyed Bless the Beasts & Children, you might also like the following books and movies:
- Lord of the Flies by William Golding
- Stand by Me (1986 film)
- My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
- The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Other works by Glendon Swarthout
In addition to Bless the Beasts & Children, Glendon Swarthout wrote numerous novels that span a variety of genres and themes. Some of his other notable works include:
- The Shootist (1975)
- The Homesman (1988)
- The Old Colts (1965)
- They Came to Cordura (1958)
Book club questions and discussion topics
- How does the setting of the Arizona wilderness contribute to the story and the characters’ development?
- Discuss the theme of friendship and how it is portrayed in the novel.
- Which character did you identify with the most, and why?
- How does the novel explore the concept of innocence and its loss?
- Do you think the ending of the story is hopeful or tragic?
A travel guide to visit Bless the Beasts & Children locations
Visiting the locations featured in Bless the Beasts & Children can be a rewarding and immersive experience for fans of the story. Plan a trip to Arizona that includes stops at the following sites:
- Sedona: This picturesque town is known for its red rock formations and vibrant arts scene.
- Oak Creek Canyon: A scenic river gorge located in the Coconino National Forest, featuring hiking trails and campgrounds.
- Coconino National Forest: A vast expanse of wilderness that encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including deserts, forests, and mountain ranges.
Conclusion
Bless the Beasts & Children is a powerful coming-of-age story that has resonated with readers and viewers for decades. This comprehensive guide has provided an in-depth exploration of the book, movie, and their cultural impact, as well as resources for parents, fans, and those interested in delving deeper into the world of Bless the Beasts & Children. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the story, there is much to discover and appreciate about this timeless tale of friendship, growth, and the power of standing up for what is right.
