Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
'Midst Arctic Perils: A Thrilling Story of Adventure in the Polar Regions
"Midst Arctic Perils" by Percy F. Westerman is a thrilling adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with Leslie Ward and his friend Guy Anderson, two teenage boys who are eager to embark on a sailing trip aboard the ketch "Laughing Lassie" when disaster strikes, leaving them in perilous circumstances in the North Sea. This book promises a mix of youthful camaraderie, survival against the odds, and the challenges posed by the treacherous Arctic environment. The opening portion of the novel introduces the two protagonists, Leslie and Guy, who are excitedly preparing for their fishing trip, only to have their journey cut short when their boat collides with a larger vessel during thick fog. As the "Laughing Lassie" sinks, the boys struggle for survival amidst the chaos. They manage to escape the wreckage, but are separated in the turbulent waters. Guy eventually finds refuge on a makeshift buoy, while Leslie’s fate remains uncertain. This gripping start sets the tone for the boys' ensuing adventures in the harsh Arctic, filled with danger, unexpected challenges, and the quest for rescue.