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.

©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.

Rich

This novel has rich characters and elegantly drawn landscapes. Enjoyed every minute of this novel. George Guidall is brilliant as always.

School assignment turned new love of books

WOW! I was originally assigned to read this book for a college class assignment but now I find myself wanting to read all of his books. This was such a wonderful story that I feel relates very well too so many things that happen in every day life. I started reading the hardcover copy of the book, and found myself in a place where I didn’t know what the characters voices sounded like, so I decided to start listening to the audiobook as-well as read, this helped immensely with understanding different character voices because there’s a lot of conversation that happens in the book. I can’t wait to read more !

Captivating Simple Authentic Western

Incredible narration. The author paints beautiful and also depressing pictures. This book left me with an indescribable feeling. If you are interested in western life- this is it. Im extremely pleased and will now look into Mr Kelton’s other novels.

Quite a history lesson.

George Guidall had the perfect voice and rhythm for this story. Well developed characters. Really really enjoyed this!

Amazing

One of my favorite Audible books of all times. Great insight into Texas. Very good narrator.