“Shiloh” by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor is a heart-wrenching and tender novel that explores themes of morality, compassion, and the bond between a boy and a dog. Winner of the Newbery Medal in 1992, this middle-grade classic tells the story of eleven-year-old Marty Preston, who discovers an abused beagle in the hills near his West Virginia home and quickly realizes the dog is fleeing his cruel owner, Judd Travers.
Marty names the dog Shiloh and is determined to protect him, even if it means lying to his family and hiding the truth. But when Shiloh’s safety is threatened, Marty faces an impossible choice: return the dog to Judd or stand up for what he believes is right, no matter the consequences.
Naylor’s simple yet powerful prose captures the moral complexity of Marty’s dilemmahis love for Shiloh clashes with his guilt over deception and his fear of Judd’s temper. The novel doesn’t offer easy answers, instead portraying the messy reality of doing what’s right in a world where adults don’t always have the solutions.
A story of quiet courage and unconditional love, Shiloh resonates with readers of all ages, reminding us that sometimes the hardest battles are fought not with fists but with conscience. If you’ve ever loved an animal or struggled to stand up against injustice, Marty’s journey will stay with you long after the last page.
