The Time It Never Rained

By: Elmer Kelton

Narrated by: George Guidall

The Time It Never Rained helped convince the Western Writers of America to declare seven-time Spur Award winner Elmer Kelton the greatest Western writer of all time. Forged from Kelton’s 1950s observations of drought-ravaged West Texas, this compelling novel tells the story of one rancher’s struggle to maintain his independence despite the swirling winds of change.

For decades, Charlie Flagg has eked out a living by raising cattle and sheep on his modest Texas ranch. Hardworking and old-fashioned, he distrusts federal programs that claim to help struggling farmers and ranchers. But as rainless years continue and others sell their souls for federal handouts, Charlie finds himself under increasing pressure to compromise his principles—and surrender his freedom.

“… not just one of the best novels ever written by a Texan. It is one of the treasures of American literature of any age or time.”—John Erickson, author of The Modern Cowboy

©1999 Elmer Kelton (P)2008 Recorded Books

RANCHER FROM THE CONCHO VALLEY (SAN ANGELO,TX)

This book brought me to tears multiple times. I cried nostalgic tears, prideful tears, sorrowful tears, and good ole happy tears. I was raised ranching and working several large ranches in this exact area. I also worked at Producers Livestock Auction (San Angelo,Tx) which my father managed along with the ranches. i was born in 1987 and I can only list about 5 truly wet years out of my 34 years on earth. There were many drought years, and years that provided par to subpar rainfall. I lived through a bad 4 year drought that had record hot summers both in temperature and length in the late 00’s. I feel anyone who grew up ranching will relate to Mr. Kelton’s book in many ways. Especially those who’ve grown up ranches in the American Southwest or Northwest Mexico. Mr. Kelton described the lives lived so simply and beautifully that anyone from any background will enjoy this book.

True to reality

This is an excellent story that is as true today as it was when it was written. I was able to relate well with many of the characters in the book. The performance was fantastic and drew me in to the book and kept it going. I loved every minute of it.

Dead producer.........

Good story, would have gotten 5 stars if you producers would LEARN to always pause at least a little between chaPters. Very irritating not to do that.....!!!!!

The time it didn't rain

This is the first Elmer Kelton book I have listened to. It was so interesting and gave me many hours of pure satisfaction. I highly recommend this book to everyone.

Great book!!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes. The story really captures the struggles and hardships of the time.

Any additional comments?

George Guidall really brings this book to life.