Subject
Great Britain. Royal Navy -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
George Manville Fenn
Hunting the Skipper: The Cruise of the "Seafowl" Sloop
"Hunting the Skipper: The Cruise of the 'Seafowl' Sloop" by George Manville Fenn is a novel set in the late 19th century. The story follows two young midshipmen, Frank Murray and Richard (Dicky) Roberts, aboard the Royal Navy sloop "Seafowl" as they confront the dangers of the slave trade on the West African coast. They grapple with the oppressive heat, witty banter, and their ambitions to capture a slaver ship while navigating complex waters and shifting loyalties. The opening of the book introduces a light-hearted exchange between the two midshipmen as they brace for another dull day of patrolling in the scorching heat, filled with a sense of competition over their shared duties. As they discuss the elusive slave traders, the narrative hints at the tension and urgency of their mission. Soon a development occurs when they see a vessel in the distance, raising their hopes for an encounter. However, their initial optimism gives way to skepticism and suspicion towards their seemingly helpful guide, the American planter. As the narrative unfolds, they push deeper into the foggy waters, setting the stage for unexpected challenges ahead, while introducing key themes of trust, adventure, and moral dilemmas in the context of a perilous colonial environment.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
With Beatty off Jutland: A Romance of the Great Sea Fight
"With Beatty off Jutland: A Romance of the Great Sea Fight" by Percy F. Westerman is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This work immerses readers in the naval battles of World War I, focusing on the crew of the British destroyer H.M.S. "Calder," particularly Acting Sub-lieutenant Jack Sefton as they undertake risky submarine operations in the North Sea. Themes of courage, camaraderie, and the brutal realities of warfare are prominent throughout the narrative. The opening of the narrative introduces the cold, tense atmosphere aboard H.M.S. "Calder." As she and her crew engage in a high-stakes mission to locate a crucial undersea cable, Sub-lieutenant Sefton and his fellow officers navigate their responsibilities while maintaining a light-hearted camaraderie. The piece paints a picture of the daily life aboard the destroyer, filled with both mundane duties and the constant threat of enemy engagement. Tension builds as they finally hook the cable they’re after, leading into the promise of further action and conflict on the horizon. The stage is set for a thrilling tale of naval warfare and adventure on the open sea.
George Manville Fenn
Fitz the Filibuster
"Fitz the Filibuster" by George Manville Fenn is a novel written in the late 19th century. This nautical adventure follows young midshipman Fitzgerald Burnett, known as Fitz, as he embarks on a perilous mission aboard a warship patrolling the Channel. Fitz soon finds himself embroiled in a struggle against smugglers in a Central American conflict, experiencing both the camaraderie of his crewmates and the tension of naval combat. At the start of the narrative, we encounter Fitz aboard his gunboat, eager for action and frustrated with the monotony of his duties. His desire to learn the ropes of naval life leads him to request permission to join an armed crew on a nighttime operation— a thrilling opportunity that quickly escalates into an unexpected adventure. As the mission unfolds, Fitz is determined to prove his worth, but a sudden turn of events leaves him knocked unconscious during an encounter that will significantly change his fate, stranding him on a mysterious schooner in unfamiliar waters.
John C. (John Conroy) Hutcheson
Young Tom Bowling The Boys of the British Navy
"Younger Tom Bowling" by J.C. Hutcheson is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the life of a young boy named Tom Bowling, who aspires to become a sailor in the British Navy. The narrative captures his experiences as he navigates the challenges of training and life at sea during a time when naval training for boys was an emerging practice. The opening of the novel introduces Tom's relationship with his father as they row towards the naval ship, Saint Vincent. Tom is eager to join the Navy, and his father, a retired sailor, has concerns about this choice. Their playful banter transitions into a serious discussion about Tom's aspirations, highlighting his determination to pursue a life at sea. The dynamics of familial relationships begin to unfold, setting the stage for Tom's journey and the various characters he will encounter, including fellow recruits, as he embarks on his adventure in naval training.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Roger Kyffin's Ward
"Roger Kyffin's Ward" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. Set against the backdrop of a time of panic in London during 1797, the story revolves around the character Stephen Coppinger, a merchant facing a crisis, and Roger Kyffin, his trusted clerk, who navigates through the tumultuous events affecting their lives and the broader society. The book explores themes of loyalty, financial struggle, and the complexities of social relationships in a time of national distress. At the start of the novel, London is turmoil as reports of a naval mutiny and international threats flood the city, creating widespread panic among its citizens. Amid this chaos, we follow Stephen Coppinger, who exudes calm despite the storm enveloping him, and his loyal clerk, Roger Kyffin, who is tasked with securing financial support for his employer’s precarious business situation. The opening chapters provide a vivid depiction of the social climate of the time, detailing the various characters affected by the events and setting the stage for the unfolding drama of their intertwined lives. As Kyffin works to assist Coppinger while grappling with his own relationships, particularly concerning his affections for Fanny Ashton, the narrative introduces a rich tapestry of intrigue and emotional depth.
Gordon Stables
As We Sweep Through The Deep
"As We Sweep Through The Deep" by Dr. Gordon Stables is a historical novel written in the late 19th century." The narrative follows the adventures of Jack Mackenzie, a young and aspiring sailor, as he navigates his love for Gerty Keane against the backdrop of naval warfare and the struggles of his family estate, Grantley Hall. The story juxtaposes themes of romantic entanglement and the trials of honor and duty during a time of conflict. "At the start of the book, we are introduced to Jack Mackenzie, who reflects on the two years since he left England on the frigate "Ocean Pride"." His thoughts are intertwined with the characters Mr. Richards and Mr. Keane, who discuss Jack's family financial troubles and the affections of Gerty, a beautiful girl who has feelings for Jack but is also bound by her loyalty to her father. As Jack converses with his shipmate Tom Fairlie, they engage in playful banter about their homes and Gerty, hinting at Jack's emotional investment in their relationship. Meanwhile, Gerty and her sister Flora, left at their family estate, are reminiscent of Jack and deeply consider his absence, setting the stage for themes of longing, courage, and sacrifice that will unfold throughout the storyline.
William Henry Giles Kingston
The Three Commanders
"The Three Commanders" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. As the third installment in a tetralogy that begins with "The Three Midshipmen," it continues the adventures of familiar characters, likely focusing on their experiences in naval life during this period. The storyline begins with the depiction of naval warfare and duty, exploring themes of camaraderie, sacrifice, and the moral implications of actions taken during wartime. At the start of the novel, we meet Alick Murray, who is preparing to leave his idyllic Highland home in Scotland with his wife, Stella, as he is appointed to command the corvette "Opal". The arrival of Admiral Triton and the impending departure set the stage for the exploration of naval adventures, including the pursuit of slave smugglers in East Africa and participation in the Crimean War. The narrative unfolds with lively discussions among characters about duty, relationships, and the harsh realities of naval life, reflecting their personal struggles and the professional responsibilities that await them. The beginning introduces a blend of rich character development and vivid depictions of the historical setting, drawing readers into the world of naval combat and the challenges faced by those who serve.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
The Fight for Constantinople: A Story of the Gallipoli Peninsula
"The Fight for Constantinople: A Story of the Gallipoli Peninsula" by Percy F. Westerman is a historical account that draws readers into the events surrounding the Gallipoli campaign during World War I. The narrative follows Sub-lieutenant Richard Crosthwaite aboard the aging battleship "Hammerer" as he and his crew prepare for naval warfare against the Ottoman Empire, specifically focusing on the Dardanelles. The story introduces themes of duty, bravery, and the challenges faced by military personnel in a pivotal moment of history. At the start of the narrative, we meet Richard Crosthwaite, who is dissatisfied with his assignment to the "Hammerer", an older battleship. After receiving orders and saying goodbye to his family, he embarks on the ship, now readied for action in the Dardanelles. The opening chapters depict the preparations for battle, Crosthwaite's musings on his new assignment, and the series of events leading up to the confrontation between the British fleet and the Turkish forts. Early combat ensues, conveying the tension and excitement of naval warfare with vivid descriptions of both naval maneuvers and the emotional experiences of the characters. The stage is set for an engaging tale of adventure and resilience in the face of danger.
John C. (John Conroy) Hutcheson
Crown and Anchor Under the Pen'ant
"Crown and Anchor" by John Conroy Hutcheson is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the protagonist, Jack Vernon, a young boy experiencing London for the first time, as he navigates his father's recent return from service in the Royal Navy and his own aspirations of becoming a sailor. The narrative hints at a mix of adventure and insights into naval life as they encounter notable figures, including the eccentric Admiral Sir Charles Napier. The opening of "Crown and Anchor" introduces us to Jack and his father as they explore Pall Mall in London. Their journey is marked by Jack's curiosity about the world around him, leading to a humorous encounter with a peculiar old gentleman who is later revealed to be Admiral Napier. This meeting ignites a series of events that culminates in Jack's nomination for a naval cadetship, solidifying his dreams of following in his father's footsteps. The narrative is rich with character interactions, generating a lively scene that sets the tone for Jack's maritime aspirations and the adventures that await him on the high seas.
William Henry Giles Kingston
True Blue
"True Blue" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative depicts the life of a British seaman during the age of wooden warships and provides a vivid portrayal of naval life, particularly set against the backdrop of significant battles like the one on the "glorious first of June." The story revolves around the main character, William Freeborn, who faces the harsh realities of life at sea, including personal loss and the struggles of parenthood aboard a ship. The opening of the novel sets a dramatic tone as the ship "Terrible" sails through a turbulent Atlantic storm, showcasing the dangers of naval life. The captain, Josiah Penrose, is depicted as a compassionate leader, especially as he tends to the well-being of his crew and their families, including the wife of one of his men, William Freeborn. As the ship bravely faces the elements, Freeborn receives devastating news about his wife, Molly, and the birth of their child, Billy True Blue. Through a blend of adventure and human emotion, Kingston captures the camaraderie and hardships faced by sailors while foreshadowing the challenges that little Billy will encounter as he grows up in the turbulent world of the sea.
Harry Collingwood
A Middy in Command: A Tale of the Slave Squadron
"A Middy in Command: A Tale of the Slave Squadron" by Harry Collingwood is a nautical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on a young midshipman in the Royal Navy, Mr. Grenvile, who serves in the anti-slave-trade squadron. The narrative likely explores themes of adventure, naval warfare, and moral complexities surrounding the slave trade, as the protagonist embarks on a quest filled with challenges, including the pursuit of slavers. The opening of the tale establishes a vivid maritime setting, introducing readers to the H.M. gun-brig "Shark" navigating the seas near the Congo. As dawn breaks, the crew spots two strange sails, suspected slavers, prompting a pursuit led by Mr. Grenvile. The account captures the bustling life aboard the ship as orders are given and sails adjusted while the protagonist eagerly participates in the chase. Tension builds as the "Shark" prepares to engage with the enemy, setting the stage for an exciting narrative rife with action, bravery, and the complexities of naval life.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Paddy Finn
"Paddy Finn" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical adventure novel written in the mid-19th century. The story follows Terence O'Finnahan, affectionately nicknamed Paddy Finn, as he embarks on a tumultuous journey from his ancestral home to life as a midshipman in the Royal Navy. This work is characterized by its richly detailed narrative and fast-paced action, with themes of adventure, bravery, and the challenges of naval life. The opening of the novel introduces Terence as he prepares to join the naval service, exploring his family background and connections, particularly with his uncle Major McMahon. Terence's excitement is palpable as he learns that he will serve aboard the frigate "Liffy" alongside his foster brother, Larry Harrigan. The vivid descriptions of Castle Ballinahone and Terence's lively family life set the stage for his transition to the sea. As he leaves home, Terence experiences a range of emotions, from the thrill of adventure to the bittersweet nature of farewells, foreshadowing the trials and tribulations he will face in his naval career. This initial chapter deftly combines humor, familial love, and a sense of impending adventure, establishing a foundation for the unfolding tale.
Recently surfaced classics