My Friend Flicka

As a bildungsroman, My Friend Flicka explores Ken’s development over the course of one summer during his childhood. Central to his maturation is the relationship that he develops with Flicka, which explores the power of human-animal relationships.

At the start of the novel, Ken is irresponsible and imaginative. He breaks horse riding equipment, fails the school year, and makes his father’s work more difficult through his mistakes on the ranch. As the narrative continues, however, he makes several key changes that reflect his maturation. First, he is devoted to raising Flicka, spending hours each day with her and even risking his life to stay with her through the night. Ken gradually becomes a valuable asset to the ranch, taking on more responsibility and completing chores throughout the summer. Finally, he begins to understand the importance of his schooling, both because of the financial cost to his father and his desire to succeed, a fact which culminates in his completion of his essay and praise from his teacher. Each of these changes comes as a direct result of his father’s decision to allow Ken to raise Flicka. Once he becomes committed to training Flicka, valuing the friendship and companionship that she offers, he also begins to mature as a person.