"He's dangerous all right." Father said it in a musing way. Then he chuckled. "But not to us, my dear ... In fact, I don't think you ever had a safer man in your house." Shane, a western novel, tells about a mysterious stranger who becomes involved in a conflict between a group of homesteaders and a ranch owner. This novel, by Jack Schaefer, begins in the summer of 1889 and continues through the next year. It takes place at the Starrett's farm in the wilderness of Wyoming. Shane, the main character, is a powerful man who reveals little about himself. He is Bob's hero and quickly becomes Joe Starrett's companion. Joe Starrett is a hard-working farmer who is the leader of a group of homesteaders. Bob Starrett, Joe's son, is the narrator of the book and allows us to see things through a young boy's point of view. He is a curious boy and has a desire for action and someone to look up to. Marian Starrett, a slender, lively woman, is known for her exceptionally good cooking. She is a loyal wife to Joe and a great mother to Bob. Luke Fletcher, Stark Wilson and Chris are the villains of the book. Fletcher, a rancher, wants to take over the farms in the area. In Shane, the author reminds the reader what it means to be a man and hero by facing different kinds of dangers and fears.
             Throughout the story, Luke Fletcher is trying to force Joe and his neighbors into turning over their farms to him. He wants their ranches so he can buy more cattle and own the only farm in the valley. Bob Starrett and his family welcome Shane, a tough looking cowboy, and ask him to
             stay. Shane helps Joe with the chores around the farm. Marian enjoys hearing Shane talk about the big towns he has visited. He is a loyal friend to the Starrett family. Fletcher and his men, Stark Wilson and Chris, are constantly provoking the Starretts. Joe Starrett refuses to sell his farm to Fletcher. Shane, showing his dangerous side,
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