Rascal

Sterling brings the young raccoon home after a lynx disturbs a family of raccoons in the woods near Brailsford Junction. Willard is part of the household, and Sterling names the raccoon Rascal. This moment begins Rascal's life with the North family and sets the stage for a lasting bond between boy and animal.

Theo returns from Chicago and begins lining up interviews for a potential live-in housekeeper to help manage the household. She hopes to establish stability while Willard is away at work. This moment foreshadows the growing responsibilities the family must face.

Willard agrees to meet Theo's favorite candidate, Mrs. Satterfield, but dismisses her after the interview and decides that Sterling can take care of himself. The decision sharpens Sterling's burden at home. It sets the stage for the boy's early tests of independence.

Rascal starts causing trouble around town, trashing a local store and digging up a neighbor's corn patch. The mischief tests the town's tolerance and Sterling's ability to manage his raccoon companion. The growing conflicts foreshadow the pressures the family will face.

A local constable threatens to hold Sterling responsible for damages unless Rascal is kept caged. The threat raises the stakes of keeping a wild animal in a small town and adds pressure on Sterling to discipline Rascal.

Rascal's presence at the race inspires Donnybrook, the sulky horse, to win a race against a Stanley Steamer. The victory changes the town's view of Rascal and Sterling, softening earlier hostility. The moment marks a turning point in how the community perceives the boy and his raccoon.

Theo returns to a messy home and confronts Willard about Sterling's need for help. Willard vows to become a better father, acknowledging his shortcomings. The confrontation deepens the family's resolve to support Sterling.

Later that night, Rascal hears a female raccoon’s mating call and tries to escape through Theo's room, waking the household. In a scuffle, Rascal bites Sterling's finger, signaling that letting Rascal go may be the kinder choice. Sterling recognizes Rascal's independence is near.

The next day, Sterling sets out in his homemade canoe and returns Rascal to his old stomping grounds, where he quickly locates a female raccoon. The reunion marks Rascal’s place in the wild and hints at a lifelong partnership with his mate.

The lynx returns, and Rascal with his new mate outwit the predator, sending him tumbling into the water as Sterling arrives to help. The moment reinforces Rascal’s ability to protect himself and his partner. Sterling leaves with a quiet respect for their bond.

Sterling departs, knowing Rascal and his mate will protect each other in the wild. The story closes on a note of acceptance that Rascal has found his place and family among the forest.