Greyfriars Bobby

The narration of Greyfriars Bobby is most unusual. The book is written from the point of view of the dog, which makes every-day events very strange. The main story of the book is directly adapted from the supposedly true Scottish story of Greyfriars Bobby. Bobby spends much time with his master and unofficial owner, Auld Jock (Scots for Old John), creating a very strong emotional connection. They have an intense connection and Jock cares for Bobby very well—though Jock never bought Bobby. This creates problems later, because of Jock’s having, in the eyes of the law, stolen an unlicensed dog. Eventually, Auld Jock dies. Bobby is in great distress, but a loyal dog will never leave its owner’s side, even after death. After his owner dies, Bobby is lost; he can barely function without his companion. Though his owner’s body was identified by the man’s given name, John Gray, and not as Auld Jock, his nickname, people still tell Bobby to look for Jock, which just worsens Bobby’s pain. He is lost for a while, and a large reward is offered for his return. Eventually, Bobby finds Auld Jock’s grave and guards it day and night. The pair are inseparable.