I’m a big fan of the movie with John Wayne, and I’m looking forward to the new adaptation with Jeff Bridges playing ‘Rooster’ Cogburn. However, when the new movie came out a few months ago, I read an article in “Newsweek” that focused more on Charles Portis’s “True Grit” than on the two movies made from his most famous book written in 1968. article mentioned both films, but went on to discuss the novel’s merits and encouraged readers to read the novel before viewing the film. I thought that was good advice, so I bought a copy and incorporated it into my reading.

I read it this week and found it a very enjoyable read. It’s a short book, and very easy to get lost in the well-written history. What I didn’t realize until I started reading is that the book is written in the voice of Mattie Ross, the fourteen-year-old girl from Dardanell, Arkansas, who sets out to avenge the murder of her father.

Many of those who have seen the movie or movies are familiar with the story. Mattie convinces the most evil US Marshal she can find, one with courage, to come with her to track down the killer of her father. Of course, she talks him into it through a paycheck. They are joined by Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, who is also after the same man for different crimes. What follows is a fast-paced adventure that proves that Cogburn isn’t the only person with guts. And while one-eyed Marshal Cogburn is the memorable character, especially when played by Oscar winners Wayne (for this film) and Bridges, the story is really about young Mattie.

It is his thoughts, fears, wit and personality that we share when we read. She’s a pretty self-assured and self-assured young woman, but she also needs the two men she hooks up with to complete her affair. The book’s conclusion is not one of happiness, but neither is life, and it’s a satisfying ending to the story.

Portis deserves the praise he has received for this novel. It is a moving and compelling story, told with a dramatic simplicity and directness that is refreshing, gripping, and the reason both films have been successful. Yes, the movies had great actors, but it’s the underlying story that made the movies what they are. I agree with “Newsweek” that you should read this book. If you enjoyed any of the movies, do yourself a favor and read the book.