Think of it as "Little House" for boys, also based on real people. Robbie works hard for his calvanistic father on their Wisconsin farm, but enjoys learning from the neighbor Prof. Kumlien, a Swedish immigrant botanist. More sensitive than the loutish Bubs (a classmate), Robbie's relationship with his horse gains him the respect of knowledgable adults when Bubs wins a race only with severe lashing his horse.
Of course, I can't omit to mention the wolf pup Robbie rescues from slaughter and raises. Nor the teasing relationship he has with a girl. Nor even the ex-Civil War veteran who works as a field hand for the family but moves on because of his mental anguish over the deaths in his life.
While the writing is slightly dated, it is still enjoyable. The reader learns an appreciation for the natural world. ( )