Red Sky at Morning

Red Sky at Morning is a 1968 novel by Richard Bradford. It was made into a 1971 film of the same name. The book follows Josh Arnold, a young man whose family relocates from Mobile, Alabama to Corazon Sagrado, New Mexico during World War II. It was regarded as a "true delight" (Washington Post Book World) and a "novel of consequence" (New York Times Book Review). Today, it is still regarded as a classic coming-of-age story. The title of the novel comes from a line in an ancient mariner's rhyme "Red sky at morning, sailor take warning". Characters/plot details Joshua Arnold – in many ways a typical teenager, Josh possesses an underlying strength that allows him to endure a variety of pressures and difficulties. When his father leaves to join the United States Navy, Josh takes over his role as head of the household. These additional responsibilities turn Josh from the seemingly naïve boy at the beginning of the novel into the capable adult into which he evolves. Frank Arnold – Mr. Arnold is Josh's father. Although racism is a common issue at the time, Mr. Arnold often goes out of his way to help minorities, whom he may employ. Mr. Arnold owns a shipyard but insists on joining the Navy. His absence plays a major role in Josh's development. Ann Arnold – Mrs. Arnold is Josh's mother and is in sharp contrast to his father. Mrs. Arnold is a strong southern woman who does not display the same kindness to minorities. The absence of her husband, however, leads to her mental breakdown, another trying factor for Josh, halfway through the book. Amalie – Amalie was Mr. Arnold's high school friend. She spoke kindly of his treatment of her throughout high school. They dated in high school also but instead of marrying her Mr. Arnold married Ann Arnold. She did and still does love Mr. Arnold and does not hold back in telling Josh so. Jimbob Buel – Jimbob is a professional house guest, who has been bouncing between houses for quite some time. He spends several months with the Arnolds. Courtney Ann Conway – Courtney Anne, or Corky, is Josh's girlfriend from Mobile. Paul and Lacey – Paul and Lacey are the Arnolds' domestic employees in Mobile. Upon being let go, because the family is moving, they receive 500 dollars from Mr. Arnold, while "Mrs. Ann" gives them only 10. Amadeo and Excilda Montoya – The Arnolds' domestic help in Sagrado. In a rage, Josh's mother fires them. Later, they are rehired by Josh. Victoria – Victoria is the Montoyas' daughter.