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The Incredible Journey

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Watch The Incredible Journey with a subscription on Disney+, rent on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, or buy on Fandango at Home, Prime Video.

Audience Reviews

Cast & crew.

Fletcher Markle

Emile Genest

John Longridge

John Drainie

Professor Jim Hunter

Tommy Tweed

Sandra Scott

Mrs. Hunter

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  • Live-action films
  • Homeward Bound
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The Incredible Journey

  • View history
  • 5 Copyright info
  • 6 References

The Hunter family receive a telegram detailing that the father, James, has been offered a visiting fellowship at Oxford University in England. However, their two children, Peter and Elizabeth worry about what is to be done with their two dogs, Luath the young Labrador Retriever and Bodger the elderly English Bull Terrier, along with their Siamese cat Tao, while they are away. Family friend John Longridge offers to have the animals stay with him, so that is what is arranged.

After a few days of having the animals in his care John leaves for the opening day of duck hunting season; he leaves his housekeeper, Mrs. Oakes and her husband, Bert to look after his house and the animals during his absence. Soon after John drives away, Luath hears the calls of wild geese overhead, returning home. This makes him want to do the same, so he starts off down the road, and Tao and Bodger soon follow after him. Later, Mrs. Oakes arrives at John's house expecting to see the animals, but can't find them. Then she finds half of a note that John had written that appears to imply that he took the animals with him on the trip (however, the other half of it was accidentally knocked into the fireplace by the cat, but Mrs. Oakes doesn't realize this).

Now well on their way home, the animals stop at a river to have a drink, but have to hide from a passing truck in case they are recognized. After that, they continue on. By the next morning, old Bodger is very tired and is beginning to slow down, so the animals stop for a rest in a clearing and wait for Bodger to regain his strength. Tao goes off into the brush to hunt a partridge while the old dog rests. Soon, two bear cubs happen upon Bodger and investigate him, but then their mother arrives on the scene. The mother bear thinks Bodger has been hurting her cubs and attacks him; the cat witnesses this and in turn attacks her in trying to protect his friend. However, Tao eventually backs up, frightened. Finally, Luath sees the bear and starts barking furiously; this, combined with the yowling, spitting cat, is enough to cause the mother bear to back down and run away.

After a whole week of traveling, the animals adapt to traveling after dark so that there is less chance of someone seeing them. They cut through an old saw mill, but are shot at after Bodger, rather foolishly, steals an old bone from a cookhouse's rubbish bin. They escape unharmed, although Bodger's dignity is given a serious blow. After ten days, while Bodger is resting, he hears the singing of a hermit, named Jeremy.

The eccentric old man takes the animals to his hut, where he makes a stew for them to eat. The dogs don't really take to the stew and Tao is more interested in stalking Jeremy's pet crow, but they don't show that they aren't interested. After a while they decide to leave and continue their journey. Many miles along, the animals come to a wide river, which they realize they have no choice but to cross. Luath and Bodger make it across easily, but Tao prefers not to get wet so he finds a dam to cross. However, when he reaches a large gap, he tries to jump over it but falls into the water. Luath tries to rescue him, but is too slow to keep up and loses him.

After trying to console one another, Bodger and Luath decide to press on without their friend. However, many miles downriver, a young girl named Helvi discovers Tao, soaking wet, barely alive, and half-starved, by the side of the water. She and her parents proceed to take Tao into their care and nurse him back to health over a number of days. One night, after recovering fully, the cat decides to leave the family and get back to the dogs.

Tao takes his time in traveling, now that he is alone. But, as he journeys deeper into the forest he discovers that he is being quietly stalked by a hungry lynx. The lynx attacks Tao and chases him up a tree, but he escapes. Then, the lynx corners Tao in a log, but is driven off by the arrival of a young boy with a rifle, allowing the cat to press on.

Not long after that, Luath and Bodger hear Tao calling. They immediately recognize their friend and the threesome are joyfully reunited. Together once again, the animals set off in search of food. Luath spies a porcupine, but gets too close to it, leaving him with quills stuck in his muzzle. Soon, while soothing his pain at a river, Luath meets hunter James MacKenzie, who takes pity on the young Labrador and brings him back to his house for treatment. When he arrives, he discovers that his wife Nell has found Bodger. The cat hides on a wood pile outside the house, watching and waiting and unnoticed by James or Nell. James removes the quills from Luath's muzzle (despite initially being on the receiving end of Bodger's protective instincts over the young dog) and that night, he locks the dogs in his barn, planning to ask around and find out who they belong to. Tao then rejoins his friends.

Meanwhile, John arrives home and it is discovered that the animals have disappeared. After some initial confusion as to why, the humans deduce that Luath has taken them home. John telephones the various ranger stations around the Ironmouth Range area, but they all say they will get in touch with him the following day. Later, the Hunters arrive home; John lets them know what's happened and Peter is quick to realize that an older dog such as Bodger most likely wouldn't have the strength to complete a journey so long, but Elizabeth remains firmly convinced that Tao will, sooner or later, return home. The animals, meanwhile, escape from the barn and the humans realize where they are and that they have only 40 miles left to go; this leads the humans to believe that if they've managed to get this far, they just may be able to make it all the way home.

On Peter's birthday soon afterwards, John gets Peter a registration paper from the Kenmore kennel, who are holding another Bull Terrier puppy in his name. All of a sudden, Elizabeth hears a dog barking in the distance and becomes immediately convinced that it must be Luath. Despite initial reservations, James whistles to the dog to see if Elizabeth is right; moments later they see Luath charging across the heathland ahead and barking, overjoyed to have finally returned home. A few seconds afterwards, Tao follows on and also arrives home safely.

Sadly, Peter is convinced that Bodger wasn't able to make the journey because he was too old, but is happy to see Tao and Luath again. Just then, Peter suddenly spots a white shape on the horizon, which he soon realizes is, in fact, Bodger, coming as quickly as he possibly can. The boy and the old dog are ecstatic to be reunited once again. The cat and Labrador join Bodger and Peter in their frolicking and all is well as the three very brave animals finally complete their incredible journey.

  • Emile Genest as John Longridge
  • John Drainie as Professor James Hunter, the father and husband of the Hunter family
  • Sandra Scott as Nancy Hunter, the mother and wife of the Hunter family
  • Marion Finlayson as Elizabeth Hunter, the daughter and sister of the Hunter family
  • Ronald Cohoon as Peter Hunter, the son and brother of the Hunter family
  • Tommy Tweed as Hermit
  • Robert Christie as James MacKenzie
  • Beth Lockerbie as Nell MacKenzie
  • Beth Amos as Mrs. Oakes
  • Eric Clavering as Bert Oakes
  • Muffy as Bodger, a Bull terrier
  • Rink as Luath, a Labrador retriever
  • Syn Cat as Tao, a Siamese cat

Gallery [ ]

Wiki

In 1993 , Disney made a new version of the film, entitled Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey . Featuring the voices of Don Ameche, Sally Field , and Michael J. Fox , the film keeps the same basic story line, but adds a subplot in which the kids are dealing with a new step-family. All three pets are renamed, the original breeds are switched, the Bull Terrier is replaced with an American Bulldog, the gender of the cat switched, and the ages of the original Labrador and Bull Terrier are switched. It also has vocalizations of the animals' thoughts and communications with each other.

Copyright info [ ]

The film's copyright was renewed on October 3 , 1991 . [1] The copyright to the story it is based on was also renewed in the U.S. [2]

References [ ]

  • ↑ Online Copyright Catalog search (form autofilled, pressing "begin search" brings up the entry)
  • ↑ Catalog of Copyright Entries (Source material)
  • 3 Mufasa: The Lion King
  • Cast & crew
  • User reviews

The Incredible Journey

The Incredible Journey (1963)

Two dogs and a cat set off on a treacherous 200-mile journey towards home. Two dogs and a cat set off on a treacherous 200-mile journey towards home. Two dogs and a cat set off on a treacherous 200-mile journey towards home.

  • Fletcher Markle
  • James Algar
  • Sheila Burnford
  • Émile Genest
  • John Drainie
  • Tommy Tweed
  • 37 User reviews
  • 11 Critic reviews
  • 87 Metascore

Theatrical Trailer

  • John Longridge
  • (as Emile Genest)
  • Professor Jim Hunter
  • Mrs. Hunter
  • Elizabeth Hunter
  • Peter Hunter

Robert Christie

  • James MacKenzie
  • Nell MacKenzie

Jan Rubes

  • (as Irena Mayeska)

Beth Amos

  • (uncredited)
  • Bodger -Dog
  • All cast & crew
  • Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

Did you know

  • Trivia Quebec-born Émile Genest did not dub himself in the French version. It was done by a French actor in SPS studios, Paris, France.
  • Goofs While Bodger the Bull Terrier is referred to as a male, the dog playing the part is obviously a female.

Narrator : As he went deeper and deeper into the forest, the cat began to get uneasy. He had a strange feeling he was being followed. There was nothing in sight, yet his sense told him there was something back there, something evil.

  • Connections Featured in L'ami public numéro un: Les ours (1971)
  • Soundtracks Oh My Darling, Clementine Music by Percy Montrose Lyrics by H.S. Thompson

User reviews 37

  • strong-122-478885
  • Dec 16, 2017
  • How long is The Incredible Journey? Powered by Alexa
  • November 20, 1963 (United States)
  • United States
  • Die unglaubliche Reise
  • Mono Mills, Ontario, Canada (Main house)
  • Walt Disney Productions
  • See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

  • Runtime 1 hour 20 minutes

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The Incredible Journey

The Incredible Journey

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Brief Synopsis

Cast & crew, fletcher markle, emile genest, photos & videos, technical specs.

bodger the incredible journey

When the Hunter family depart from their Canadian town for a summer in England, they leave their pets--Bodger (an elderly bull terrier), Luath (a yellow Labrador retriever), and Tao (a Siamese cat)--with their friend John Longridge, who lives in Ontario 250 miles away. Toward the end of the summer, John goes off on a hunting trip, and the three homesick animals set out to find their way back to the Hunter house. During their journey across some of Canada's wildest terrain, the three participate in numerous adventures. There are an encounter with a lynx, a battle with a vicious farm dog, and a scuffle with a bear. Tao, a natural hunter, brings Bodger food after he collapses from weakness. The dogs become separated from Tao when he falls into a river and nearly drowns, but they are reunited after the cat has been rescued and nursed back to health by a little Finnish girl. Luath has a painful encounter with a porcupine, but his wounds are treated by a kindly farmer. Along the way an old hermit entertains the trio as his guests. Upon returning from England, the Hunters are informed of the disappearance of their pets. A short time later a somewhat unhappy birthday party in the Hunter garden is turned into a homecoming celebration as the three pets emerge from the woods behind the house and rush to join the family for a happy reunion.

bodger the incredible journey

John Drainie

Tommy tweed, sandra scott, marion finlayson, ronald cohoon, robert christie, beth lockerbie, irena mayeska, eric clavering, james algar, lloyd beebe, carroll clark, robert o. cook, jack couffer, walt disney, halleck h. driscoll, chuck keehne, evelyn kennedy, william r. koehler, john b. mansbridge, mickey mccardle, pat mcnalley, william o'sullivan, norman r. palmer, kenneth peach, walter sheets, charles thompson, erwin l. verity, oliver wallace.

bodger the incredible journey

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Celebrating Cats in Movies and Television.

The incredible journey (1963).

Walt Disney Productions Starring:  Émile Genest, John Drainie, Sandra Scott Also Starring:  Syn, Muffey, Rink Directed by:  Fletcher Markle

Synopsis:  Based on the book by Sheila Burnford.  Three animals, a young Labrador Retriever named Luath (played by Rink), a Siamese cat named Tao (played by Syn) and an older Bull Terrier named Bodger (played by Muffey), are being cared for by their owners’ friend, John Longridge (Émile Genest).  When Longridge goes duck hunting the animals set off across the rugged Canadian wilderness in an effort to find their way home.

Cinema Cat:  Syn the Siamese Cat shines in his role as Tao in this film and many of the scenes are devoted to him solely.  There are several times when Tao causes trouble but then there are many times when Tao is a hero, stepping in to protect his canine friends or catching food for them.

Syn is a cat actor with real screen presence.  Walt Disney must have noticed this as well, because Syn would later star in the Disney film That Darn Cat! alongside Hayley Mills.  William Koehler was the trainer of Syn for both films.

Kitty Carnage Warning!  Some people have pointed a harsh finger at this film as being a prime example of animal cruelty in films.  Certainly there are notorious examples in these live-action Disney nature films where animals were reportedly injured or killed (the lemmings “suicide” in White Wilderness being a prime example).  Some scenes in this film are certainly cringe-worthy for those who cannot stand to see animals in any kind of distress.  Tao is shown many times hissing, fighting and screeching, something many a cat actor has been somehow cajoled to do on film.  In all honesty, the worst offense in this film is the fact that they put animal actors together who really probably should not have been sharing the screen, seeing as how even in the best of circumstances there are chances for things to go wrong, i.e. the bear and the lynx scenes in particular.  But by the same token we don’t see any real evidence onscreen of the animals hurting one another in these scenes.  And the scene where Tao is washed downstream is honestly not as traumatic to see as the one in the later remake, but neither is as bad as the scenes in Koneko Monogatari .  In any case, we can’t confirm or deny any harm coming to the animals in this film but if you are super sensitive to watching animals in peril you may want to give this one a pass.

Final Mewsings:  Planning a long journey through the wilderness? Better bring a cat along!

[nggallery id=66]

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The Incredible Journey

MPAA Rating

Produced by, released by, the incredible journey (1963), directed by fletcher markle.

  • AllMovie Rating 7
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Synopsis by Hal Erickson

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The incredible journey, common sense media reviewers.

bodger the incredible journey

Classic Disney animal adventure about friendship, courage.

The Incredible Journey Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Friendship, teamwork, perseverance, and courage ar

The three animals all look out for each other, hel

Some animals are shot at with guns -- although non

Toward the end of the movie, a character is seen s

Parents need to know that The Incredible Journey is a heartwarming, 1963 Disney live-action movie -- based on Sheila Burnford's novel -- with positive messages around friendship and perseverance. It was later remade in 1993 as Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey . The movie centers around a cat and…

Positive Messages

Friendship, teamwork, perseverance, and courage are strong themes. The relationship between the cat and dogs -- despite being different animals and breeds -- has positive messages of inclusiveness and empathy. The kindness of strangers. The love and bond between pets and their owners.

Positive Role Models

The three animals all look out for each other, helping each other when they are in need. The family who the animals belong to have plenty of love and affection for them. Most of the other humans they come into contact with are kind and generous. But some take a dislike to them and aggressively chase them away.

Violence & Scariness

Some animals are shot at with guns -- although none of them are hit, it is enough to scare the animals away. A duck hunt sees a duck being shot dead in the sky and a dog retrieve it. There are some aggressive scenes between animals. A cat hisses and claws at a bear when protecting a dog. The cat is later chased by a lynx before a gunshot scares the big cat away. Spoiler alert: A cat falls into a river and is washed away, presumably to its death -- it later emerges that it has survived. The animals constantly face the threat of starvation. In an effort to find some food, a cat catches a fish and a dog catches a rabbit -- the latter is seen lifeless between the dog's jaws. After trying to catch a porcupine, a dog ends up with the porcupine's spikes in its face, causing much distress.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Toward the end of the movie, a character is seen smoking a pipe and another a cigarette. Another character is seen rolling up a cigarette.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The Incredible Journey is a heartwarming, 1963 Disney live-action movie -- based on Sheila Burnford's novel -- with positive messages around friendship and perseverance. It was later remade in 1993 as Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey . The movie centers around a cat and two dogs as they travel across the Canadian wilderness in search of home. As opposed to the 1993 remake, the animals are non-speaking, but they do encounter humans along the way, and there is a touching narration throughout. There are some moments of peril that may trouble younger viewers -- with the trio facing the constant threat of starvation and other animals. Spoiler alert: In the movie's most distressing scene, Tao, a Siamese cat, is swept into a river and is presumed dead -- but he later emerges alive. Animals are shot at but never hit, apart from a duck hunting scene in which a duck is shot dead from the sky. Some aggression is seen between different animals including when a bear tries to attack Bodger, an English bull terrier, and a lynx chases Tao. Luath, a Labrador retriever, ends up with porcupine spikes in his face, causing him much distress. There is some smoking toward the end of the movie, befitting the time period. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

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Community Reviews

  • Parents say (1)
  • Kids say (1)

Based on 1 parent review

What's the Story?

THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY tells the remarkable story of three pets -- a cat and two dogs -- as they try to find their way home across the Canadian wilderness. While traveling the hundreds of miles, the trio encounter kind -- and not so kind -- strangers, a protective bear, an aggressive lynx, and a spiky porcupine. Can they defy the odds and make it back to the family that loves them?

Is It Any Good?

Made in 1963, this heartfelt Disney movie remains a joyous celebration of friendship and courage played through the eyes of a cat and two dogs. This is a movie that transports you to a more innocent time, championing the importance of friendship and looking out for one another. With CGI a decade away from first being seen in a movie, The Incredible Journey is impressively choreographed. The action among the animals often resembles a nature documentary rather than a family movie.

Comparisons will naturally be made to 1993's Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey , which opted to give voices to its furry stars. But by relying on just the natural behavior of the animals, the original arguably sucks you in more than the remake. Some of the acting of the human characters is at times wooden and jars the natural flow of the animal's adventure. But Rex Allen 's narration is a soothing accompaniment to a feel-good movie, as told through a Siamese cat, an English bull terrier, and a Labrador retriever.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about the friendships depicted in The Incredible Journey . What examples can you give of Tao, Bodger, and Luath helping each other? The trio are all different species and breeds, with different personalities, but this doesn't impact their friendship. Why do you think that is? How do your relationships with your friends compare?

Courage , perseverance , and teamwork all play a huge part in the movie. Why are these such important character strengths?

Did any of the scenes upset you? If so, which ones?

Why are pets so important to us? What can they teach us about life?

How did this movie compare to the 1993 remake, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey ? Which did you prefer and why?

Movie Details

  • In theaters : November 20, 1963
  • On DVD or streaming : January 13, 2015
  • Cast : Émile Genest , John Drainie , Tommy Tweed
  • Director : Fletcher Markle
  • Studio : Buena Vista
  • Genre : Action/Adventure
  • Topics : Adventures , Book Characters , Cats, Dogs, and Mice , Friendship , Wild Animals
  • Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
  • Run time : 80 minutes
  • MPAA rating : G
  • Last updated : April 23, 2024

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The Incredible Journey Symbols, Allegory and Motifs

By sheila burnford.

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

Written by people who wish to remain anonymous

Timberwolves

The small boat symbolizes Longridge's love for animal expeditions and exploration. Longridge's work involves researching different species of animals. Every time Longridge goes to study animals, he uses his small canoe instead of large ships. The small ship gives Longridge a wider view of the animals he intends to study. In addition, the small boat allows Longridge to choose which sites to visit during his explorations.

Lynx symbolizes the violence of the wild. While traversing the dangerous terrains of the forest, Tao comes across the lynx, which preys on her. Tao is the only tactical member who helps her friends to get food when crossing the forest. Tao does her best to evade the lynx but realizes her life is in danger. Tao only survives after a child hunter shoots the lynx to save his life. Consequently, Burnford uses the lynx to show the violence of the wild. Predator animals prey on other animals, and humans use tools such as guns to defend themselves from aggressive animals such as the lynx.

Bodger (the elderly dog)

Bodger is a symbol of love. Throughout the text, readers realize that Bodger is lovely to every human being who handles him. Despite being 11 years old, Bodger does not create territories. Bodger starts showing his love for Peter, who has taken care of him for the last eleven years. When Hunters relocate to England, Bodger is the first to love Longridge, forming a great friendship. Similarly, Mrs. Oaks misses Bodger after discovering that the pets sneaked at night and ran away. Consequently, Bodger is an emblem of affection because every human character in the novels would like to bond with him.

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The Incredible Journey Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for The Incredible Journey is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Study Guide for The Incredible Journey

The Incredible Journey study guide contains a biography of Sheila Burnford, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

  • About The Incredible Journey
  • The Incredible Journey Summary
  • Character List

bodger the incredible journey

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Sheila Burnford

“The Incredible Journey,” a novel by Sheila Burnford, is a riveting tale of perseverance and friendship told through the journey of three brave pets. The story expertly employs literary devices such as vivid imagery , foreshadowing , and anthropomorphism . These techniques breathe life into the characters, making the readers feel as if they are embarking on the arduous, yet heartwarming, journey alongside the loyal animal companions.

1. Perseverance

In “The Incredible Journey,” one of the central themes is perseverance. The animals — Luath, Tao, and Bodger — despite facing numerous obstacles, never give up on their journey. Their determination to return home illustrates the power of resilience and determination.

2. Loyalty and Friendship

The three pets display unwavering loyalty to each other and their human family. Despite their differences, they depend on each other for survival, showcasing the importance of friendship and teamwork.

3. Survival and Adaptation

As the pets traverse through unfamiliar terrains, they must adapt to survive. This theme reflects the importance of adaptation in overcoming challenges. The animals rely on their instincts and learned skills to find food, avoid dangers, and navigate through the wilderness.

4. Man vs. Nature

The novel presents the classic theme of man (or in this case, pets) versus nature. The animals encounter various natural obstacles, such as rivers, wild animals, and harsh weather conditions. Their struggle emphasizes the indifference of nature and the struggle to survive against its odds.

5. The Bond Between Humans and Animals

The book explores the deep bond between humans and their pets. Despite the hardships, the animals are driven by their love and loyalty towards their human family. Their journey signifies the depth of attachment pets have with their owners.

Use of Literary Devices ✍🏽

“The Incredible Journey” uses rich imagery to describe the landscapes and environments the animals traverse. This helps readers visualize the harsh conditions and beautiful wilderness that the animals encounter during their journey.

2. Anthropomorphism

The animals in the novel are portrayed with human-like thoughts, emotions, and traits. This device helps the reader empathize with the animals and understand their experiences more deeply.

3. Foreshadowing

The author uses foreshadowing to hint at potential dangers or difficulties the pets might face in their journey. This creates suspense and keeps the readers engaged.

4. Symbolism

The journey itself is a significant symbol in the novel . It represents perseverance, friendship, and loyalty, reinforcing the book’s central themes.

5. Metaphor

The novel uses metaphors to make comparisons and deepen the understanding of the characters and their experiences. For example, the harsh wilderness could be seen as a metaphor for life’s challenges.

6. Allusion

The story contains allusions to real-life places and cultural practices, grounding the fictional journey in a believable reality.

Similes are used to make comparisons that help readers better understand the animals’ experiences. For example, one might say that Tao moved “as silently as a shadow” to illustrate his stealth.

Irony is used in the novel to highlight the unexpected outcomes in the story. For instance, the domestic pets’ ability to survive in the wild challenges our usual perceptions of pets as dependent creatures.

9. Conflict

The story contains various types of conflict , including man vs. nature and man vs. self (as the animals grapple with their own limitations). These conflicts drive the plot forward.

10. Flashback

Flashbacks are used to provide background information about the animals and their bond with their human family, helping readers understand the motivations behind their journey.

Examples of Literary Devices 📋

  • Foreshadowing
  • Personification

What is the role of imagery in “The Incredible Journey”?

Imagery in “The Incredible Journey” is primarily used to depict the diverse landscapes the pets traverse, from harsh, wild terrains to tranquil settings. This helps readers visualize the pets’ experiences, adding depth to their journey.

How does the novel use anthropomorphism?

Anthropomorphism is used to portray the pets with human-like emotions and thoughts. This enables readers to better relate to and understand the pets’ experiences, making their journey more engaging.

Can you explain how foreshadowing is used in the book?

Foreshadowing in “The Incredible Journey” often hints at potential dangers or challenges the pets will face. This creates a sense of suspense and anticipation, drawing readers further into the story.

How does symbolism enrich the narrative?

Symbolism is crucial in the narrative , with the journey itself being a key symbol . It represents core themes like loyalty, friendship, and perseverance, subtly reinforcing these themes throughout the novel .

Can you give examples of irony in “The Incredible Journey”?

Irony in “The Incredible Journey” often revolves around unexpected outcomes. For instance, despite being domestic pets, Luath, Tao, and Bodger display remarkable survival skills in the wild, contradicting conventional expectations of pets as dependent creatures.

bodger the incredible journey

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The Incredible Journey Hardcover – February 13, 2018

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  • Print length 160 pages
  • Language English
  • Grade level 3 - 7
  • Lexile measure 1320L
  • Dimensions 5.81 x 0.63 x 8.56 inches
  • Publisher Delacorte Press
  • Publication date February 13, 2018
  • ISBN-10 0385322798
  • ISBN-13 978-0385322799
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  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Delacorte Press (February 13, 2018)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 160 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0385322798
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0385322799
  • Reading age ‏ : ‎ 8 - 11 years, from customers
  • Lexile measure ‏ : ‎ 1320L
  • Grade level ‏ : ‎ 3 - 7
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.6 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.81 x 0.63 x 8.56 inches
  • #1,013 in Science & Technology for Teens (Books)
  • #1,485 in Teen & Young Adult Survival Stories

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Sheila Burnford

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The Incredible Journey

Guide cover image

44 pages • 1 hour read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Chapters 3-8

Chapters 9-11

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

Chapters 3-8 Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 3 summary.

The next morning, Bodger rises stiffly from his slumber. He hears Tao crunching upon some freshly-caught prey and hopes that he will share his kill. However, the cat leaves only a pile of inedible feathers in his wake. After taking a drink of water from the creek, Bodger returns in desperation to the pile of feathers, eating it in order to gain some sustenance. The feathers only stick to his throat and he must retch them back out. He settles for some foraged blades of grass and wild raspberries, which do nothing to truly satiate his hunger. Luath soon leads the charge to continue the journey, and all three animals proceed onwards.

Bodger journeys for as long as his body will allow him. He eventually reaches such a point of exhaustion that he collapses on the forest floor. His two companions try to rouse him, but eventually leave his prone body in order to explore the surrounding area on their own. While Luath is hungry too, killing goes against his nature.

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  6. The Incredible Journey (1963)

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  1. The Longest Journey. Прохождение. #19. Большой добряк

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  6. The Incredible Journey by Shelia Burnford- Chapter 1

COMMENTS

  1. The Incredible Journey

    The Incredible Journey ... Bodger: Bodger (whose full name is Champion Boroughcastle Brigadier of Doune) is an old English Bull Terrier. His fur is white with a slight pinkish tint. Bodger's left eye is nearly blind. The dog was born to fight and endure (as he does in the book). Because he is eleven years old, Bodger tires easily, but he is a ...

  2. The Incredible Journey (film)

    The Incredible Journey is a 1963 Canadian-American adventure film directed by Fletcher Markle and produced by Walt Disney Productions.Based on the 1961 novel of the same name by Scottish writer Sheila Burnford, the film follows the adventure of Luath the Labrador Retriever, Bodger the Bull Terrier, and Tao the Siamese cat as they journey 300 miles (480 km) through the Canadian wilderness to ...

  3. The Incredible Journey (film series)

    The Incredible Journey film series ... Professor James Hunter is the proud owner of an aging English Bull Terrior named Bodger. His children Peter and Elizabeth are the owners of a young and rambunctious Labrador Retriever named Luath and a Siamese Cat named Tao, respectively. While the Hunter family is away, they take their pets across the ...

  4. The Incredible Journey Summary and Study Guide

    The Incredible Journey was written by Sheila Burnford and published in 1960. It is a children's title—although Burnford has asserted that it was not meant for children exclusively. The novel began to enjoy cultural prominence when it was adapted into a Disney film in 1963. ... Bodger and Luath are later taken in by a kindly couple named the ...

  5. The Incredible Journey

    Rated: 5/5 • Jun 19, 2004. An unlikely trio of pets -- aging bull terrier Bodger, spry Labrador retriever Luath, and Siamese cat Tao -- begin missing their owners after being dropped off for the ...

  6. The Incredible Journey

    The Incredible Journey is a 1963 live-action film produced by Walt Disney. The film is based on Sheila Burnford's book of the same name. The film stars Emile Genest, John Drainie, Tommy Tweed, Sandra Scott, Syme Jago, Marion Finlayson, and Ronald Cohoon. The film was remade in 1993 as Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey. In the remake, the animals could talk, but only by telepathy, and the ...

  7. The Incredible Journey (film)

    The Incredible Journey is a 1963 Canadian-American adventure film directed by Fletcher Markle and produced by Walt Disney Productions. Based on the 1961 novel of the same name by Scottish writer Sheila Burnford, the film follows the adventure of Luath the Labrador Retriever, Bodger the Bull Terrier, and Tao the Siamese cat as they journey 300 miles (480 km) through the Canadian wilderness to ...

  8. The Incredible Journey (1963)

    The Incredible Journey: Directed by Fletcher Markle. With Émile Genest, John Drainie, Tommy Tweed, Sandra Scott. Two dogs and a cat set off on a treacherous 200-mile journey towards home.

  9. The Incredible Journey (1963)

    Incredible Journey, The (1963) -- (Movie Clip) Indian Summer Ending a spectacular aerial introduction with the terrain and foliage of Ontario, narration by Disney fixture Rex Allen begins and we meet Emile Genest, as the temporary owner of the three principals, Bodger, Luath and Tao, Fletcher Markle directing, in the Disney feature The ...

  10. The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford

    Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford is a timeless classic, ... Luath, Tao, and Bodger's journey shows that even the ostensibly weak are capable of magnificent things. This book is a special favorite of mine. Sheila Burnford's storytelling is vast and glorious, though simple enough to be an excellent read-aloud. The communion with nature is a ...

  11. The Incredible Journey Character Analysis

    Bodger. Bodger is the animal character who is most at home with and indiscriminately trusting of humans. Out of the three animals, he is the one who is most openly affectionate with Longridge. He also indiscriminately presents himself to the humans that the trio meets during their travels—because he has nothing but unending trust for them.

  12. The Incredible Journey (1963)

    Two dogs and a cat -- Bodget, Luath, and Tao -- are left with a loving friend 200 miles away from home. Missing their human family, they set out for home onl...

  13. The Incredible Journey Summary

    The The Incredible Journey Community Note includes chapter-by-chapter summary and analysis, character list, theme list, historical context, author biography and quizzes written by community members like you. ... Since Bodger is deaf in his left ear, Luath remains a near-constant companion on that side while the curious cat generally trails ...

  14. The Incredible Journey Characters

    The The Incredible Journey Community Note includes chapter-by-chapter summary and analysis, character list, theme list, historical context, author biography and quizzes written by community members like you. ... Bodger is the eldest pet in James Hunter's family. Bodger lives with his fellow pets, Tao and Luath. Bodger is well-built and the ...

  15. The Incredible Journey (1963)

    Directed by: Fletcher Markle. Synopsis: Based on the book by Sheila Burnford. Three animals, a young Labrador Retriever named Luath (played by Rink), a Siamese cat named Tao (played by Syn) and an older Bull Terrier named Bodger (played by Muffey), are being cared for by their owners' friend, John Longridge (Émile Genest).

  16. The Incredible Journey (1963)

    The Incredible Journey stars a cat named Tao and two dogs named Bodger and Luath. When their family goes on vacation, the animals are left in charge of family friend Emile Genest. Genest goes off to hunt for a couple of days, but fails to inform the animals of this; as a result, Tao, Bodger and Luath embark upon a 250 mile journey to be ...

  17. The Incredible Journey Movie Review

    Parents need to know that The Incredible Journey is a heartwarming, 1963 Disney live-action movie -- based on Sheila Burnford's novel-- with positive messages around friendship and perseverance.It was later remade in 1993 as Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.The movie centers around a cat and two dogs as they travel across the Canadian wilderness in search of home.

  18. The Incredible Journey Symbols, Allegory and Motifs

    The The Incredible Journey Community Note includes chapter-by-chapter summary and analysis, character list, theme list, historical context, author biography and quizzes written by community members like you. ... Bodger (the elderly dog) Bodger is a symbol of love. Throughout the text, readers realize that Bodger is lovely to every human being ...

  19. Movie Review: The Incredible Journey

    In The Incredible Journey, James MacKenzie becomes an amateur veterinarian in removing porcupine quills from Bodger's fur. At the Animal Kingdom's Rafiki's Planet Watch section, which is scheduled for at least temporary closure on October 20, 2018, guests can view real veterinarians perform operations on various animals.

  20. Literary Devices in The Incredible Journey ️

    In "The Incredible Journey," one of the central themes is perseverance. The animals — Luath, Tao, and Bodger — despite facing numerous obstacles, never give up on their journey. Their determination to return home illustrates the power of resilience and determination. 2. Loyalty and Friendship

  21. PDF The Incredible Journey

    The Incredible Journey By Sheila Burnford Synopsis Three beloved pets - Luath, a young Labrador retriever; Tao, a Siamese cat; and Bodger, an old bull terrier - have been separated from their family. Luath makes the decision to head for home, setting out with his companions on an incredible journey through the wilderness of northwestern ...

  22. The Incredible Journey

    The Incredible Journey is one of the great children's stories of all time--and has been popular ever since its debut in 1961. ... >Bodger, an old, white English Bull Terrier >Luath, a young Labrador Retriever John is heading to his brother's cabin a couple hundred miles away. Leaving a note as well as talking with his housekeeper Mrs. Oakes ...

  23. The Incredible Journey Chapters 3-8 Summary & Analysis

    Chapter 3 Summary. The next morning, Bodger rises stiffly from his slumber. He hears Tao crunching upon some freshly-caught prey and hopes that he will share his kill. However, the cat leaves only a pile of inedible feathers in his wake. After taking a drink of water from the creek, Bodger returns in desperation to the pile of feathers, eating ...