Subject
Missions -- Islands of the Pacific -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
William Henry Giles Kingston
The Cruise of the "Dainty"; Or, Rovings in the Pacific
"The Cruise of the 'Dainty'; Or, Rovings in the Pacific" by William H. G. Kingston is an adventurous novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the escapades of Harry Morton and his brother Ned on their schooner, the Dainty, as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Pacific, dealing with hostile natives, trying weather conditions, and unexpected challenges. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including a young stowaway named Dick Tilston, whose journey intertwines with the crew's mission. The opening of the story introduces the reader to the Dainty as she drifts in a calamitous calm on the Pacific Ocean. The crew is portrayed as a mix of experienced sailors and eager novices, including Harry, who tries to maintain buoyancy amid their frustrations and the oppressive heat. The narrative swiftly establishes an air of tension as they anticipate the dangers lurking in these waters, including perilous reefs and the potential hostility of the islanders. As preparations for their upcoming adventures unfold, themes of responsibility and camaraderie amongst the crew begin to shine through, particularly as they prepare to confront the challenges both at sea and on the islands they aim to explore.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Ben Hadden; or, Do Right Whatever Comes Of It
"Ben Hadden; or, Do Right, Whatever Comes Of It" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the Victorian era, focusing on themes of courage, morality, and Christian faith amid the struggles of a young boy. The story centers around Ben Hadden, the son of a fisherman, who navigates challenges related to family hardships and his aspirations, including the search for his long-lost brother Ned. The narrative emphasizes Ben's character development as he faces adversity and demonstrates unwavering moral principles. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Ben's family life in a small fishing hamlet on the east coast of England, where they face various misfortunes leading to their financial decline. When Ben courageously saves children from a runaway horse, he is injured but rescued by Lieutenant Charlton, who becomes a mentor figure. The story unfolds as Ben joins Charlton at sea, driven by a desire to reunite with Ned. Simultaneously, the opening establishes Ben's strong Christian upbringing, highlighting themes of faith and doing right regardless of the consequences, which are likely to resonate throughout the narrative.
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