One thing becomes clear as you begin to read Charles Portis’ True Grit. The protagonist and narrator, Mattie Ross, is the 19th century’s Sheldon Cooper.
High Point: The story is reminiscent of an old Zane Grey or Louis L’Amour western, but seen through the eyes of an unusual 14-year-old girl.
Low Point: None
Author: Charles Portis
Publication Date: 1968
Genre: Western
One thing becomes clear as you begin to read Charles Portis’ True Grit. The protagonist and narrator, Mattie Ross, is the 19th century’s Sheldon Cooper.
If you are familiar with the hit American television series, Young Sheldon, you will recognize the traits that are common between the 14-year-old Mattie and the TV character Sheldon.
She is very intelligent, headstrong and a know-it-all. She is innocently unaware of other people’s feelings. Her narrative frequently wanders down rabbit holes that are completely off-topic, but in a way that is unintentionally humorous rather than distracting.
All the characters, especially colored through Mattie’s eyes, generate interest. The story is simple, but fun to watch develop. It’s reminiscent of an old Zane Grey or Louis L’Amour western, but without the romantic bits.
Even if, like me, you didn’t care for the two movie adaptations of True Grit, the book may surprise you. In fact, it might even become one of your favorites.
Sources For This Book
Free eBook (Project Gutenberg): Not available
Free Audiobook (LibriVox): Not available
Available to Purchase: AbeBooks, Biblio, Thriftbooks
