Subject
Merchant mariners -- Fiction Books
Best books
Herman Melville
Redburn. His First Voyage Being the Sailor Boy Confessions and Reminiscences of the Son-Of-A-Gentleman in the Merchant Navy
"Redburn. His First Voyage" by Herman Melville is a semi-autobiographical novel published in 1849. It follows young Wellingborough Redburn, a gentleman's son who signs onto a merchant ship bound for Liverpool. Expecting respect, he instead faces brutal treatment as the lowest-ranking sailor aboard. He encounters tyrannical crewmates, witnesses devastating poverty in Liverpool's streets, and befriends a mysterious dandy whose secrets unfold during their return voyage. The novel chronicles a youth's harsh awakening to life's cruelties at sea and ashore.
James Fenimore Cooper
Afloat and Ashore: A Sea Tale
"Afloat and Ashore: A Sea Tale" by James Fenimore Cooper is a nautical fiction novel published in 1844. Set in the early 1800s, it follows Miles Wallingford Jr., a wealthy New York landowner's son who goes to sea after his parents' death. Drawing on Cooper's own maritime experiences, the novel explores Miles's adventures and his complicated relationship with Neb, a runaway slave who becomes his companion aboard ship. The story ends abruptly, requiring a sequel to resolve its plot and themes.
Thomas Hardy
The Trumpet-Major
"The Trumpet-Major" by Thomas Hardy is a historical novel published in 1880. Set in Weymouth during the Napoleonic Wars, it follows Anne Garland as she navigates the affections of three very different suitors: the honorable John Loveday, a trumpet major; his flighty sailor brother Bob; and the cowardly Festus Derriman. Against a backdrop of military camps and invasion fears, the brothers serve with Wellington and Nelson while Anne's heart wavers between duty and desire. Unusually for Hardy, the ending isn't entirely tragic—though fate looms ominously.
Frederick Marryat
Newton Forster; Or, The Merchant Service
"Newton Forster; Or, The Merchant Service" by Frederick Marryat is a novel written in the early 19th century. The book follows the life of young Newton Forster, who aspires to be a sailor and finds himself caught up in the intricacies of maritime life, family relationships, and unforeseen challenges. Set against a backdrop of naval adventure, the story introduces themes of duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of human connections. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Edward Forster, a retired naval officer recalling his past experiences while contemplating the devastating shipwreck of a vessel during a violent storm. This incident leads him to rescue an infant washed ashore, which sets off a chain of events impacting his life and those around him. Meanwhile, we meet Newton, Edward's son, who is eager to follow in his father's footsteps into the maritime world. The scene is set for a gripping tale that intertwines the themes of personal ambition, responsibility, and the unpredictability of life at sea as various characters navigate challenges shaped by their pasts and aspirations.
James Fenimore Cooper
Miles Wallingford Sequel to "Afloat and Ashore"
"Miles Wallingford" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel written in the mid-19th century. This work serves as a sequel to the earlier narrative "Afloat and Ashore," continuing the adventures of the protagonist, Miles Wallingford. The book explores themes of personal struggle, social commentary, and the trials associated with love and duty, as it follows Miles through various challenges and interactions in his life. At the start of the narrative, we witness a dramatic event involving Miles and his crew as they return to their vessel, the Wallingford. Amidst the turmoil of rescue and recovery from an accident, Miles reflects on his relationships, particularly with Lucy, a young woman whose affection seems to be intertwined with that of another character, Andrew Drewett. The opening portion highlights emotional reunions, the aftermath of a distressing incident, and the navigation of complex relationships, which set the stage for further exploration of the characters' lives and societal dynamics throughout the book. Through a blend of adventure and introspection, the story delves into the nuances of love, loyalty, and the realities of life at sea.
Frederick Marryat
Newton Forster
"Newton Forster" by Frederick Marryat is a novel written in the early 19th century. The story revolves around the life of Edward Forster, a former naval officer, and his interactions with the sea, as well as the rigorous challenges and moral dilemmas presented within maritime life. The narrative appears to explore themes of adventure, loss, and human resilience against the backdrop of the British merchant service. The opening portion introduces Edward Forster, who has retreated to a cottage near the sea after a debilitating injury in naval service. He is depicted as reflective and somewhat melancholy, haunted by recollections of his past exploits at sea. On a stormy night, he hears a distress signal from a ship in trouble, compelling him to take action to help despite the tempestuous weather. As he rushes to aid, the story hints at deeper connections between characters and the broader maritime community, laying the groundwork for the ensuing drama and character development throughout the novel. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions of the challenges faced by seamen, symbolizing the battle against nature and the fragility of life.
Kingsbury Scott
Strange waters
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