Summary for Red-Dirt Jessie
By: Anna Myers
 

A twelve-year-old girl named Jessie is growing up during the 1930's on a farm in dusty Oklahoma.  She has much to deal with at such a young age.  After her little sister, Patsy, dies, Jessie's father goes into a deep depression as he blames himself for Patsy's death.  Because of this, Jessie's mother must carry a heavier work load, taking care of the house and family.  The land is dry due to drought and farming is difficult.  Yet there is hope for Jessie as she longs for companionship with Ring, an abandoned dog who needs a loving home.  Ring is not a willing friend but Jessie is determined.  She knows that if she can tame and keep Ring, that life may not be so bad after all.  It may just cure her family's broken spirit.