The Ram of Sweetriver

by Colin Dann

The Sweetriver flock has survived the terrible storm which destroyed their valey. But can they survive the long, hungry journey to find new pastures Jacob, the ram of Sweetriver, must use every ounce of his courage to fend off danger and keep the flock together. But his enemies are not only outside the flock . . .

Genres: Childrens, Animals, Fantasy, Fiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1986

About the author

Colin Dann (born 1943 in Richmond, Surrey (now part of London)) is an English author. He is best known for his The Animals of Farthing Wood series of books, which was subsequently made into an animated series.

Dann worked at the publishing firm William Collins Sons & Co. for thirteen years, and his first novel, The Animals of Farthing Wood, was written during this period. The original cover for this and a dozen others was painted by Portal artist Frances Broomfield.

Colin Dann, recipient of Britain's Arts Council National Award for Children's Literature, is also the author of six sequels and a prequel to The Animals of Farthing Wood.

Reviews

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had to read after The Animals of Farthing Wood. Very similar, but a bit darker - more in keeping with the later books in that series.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did enjoy this book but don't consider it as good as the Farthing Wood series.
However, the issues faced by the animals are timeless as we see flooding more and more these days.
The cast of characters make a good mix and the author, as always, manages to show the disposition of each species and expertly weaves this into the story.

[Helen Pomfrey · Rating 1 out of 5]

I know its meant for children but this was truly dreadful.

[Mythical Mishmash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating 3.5 stars

[Lone Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The Ram of Sweetriver’ tells the tale of a flock of sheep who are forced to fend for themselves on the moors after their farm is flooded out in a great storm. They are led by wise old ram Jacob, who must try to keep them safe and fed in this dangerous new environment, and who also faces challenges from the younger rams.

I love all animals, but sheep are not among my favourites, so I was not expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. It’s actually one of my favourite Colin Dann novels. The story is exciting and the characters interesting and memorable. I really felt for Jacob and his struggles. I recommend this if you like the Farthing Wood books, or enjoy animal stories in general.

[Sarah A · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting and more challenging Dann book. Sheep are a more difficult subject to relate to but Dann does wonderfully.