Subject
Seafaring life -- Juvenile fiction Books
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George Manville Fenn
Sail Ho! A Boy at Sea
"Sail Ho! A Boy at Sea" by George Manville Fenn is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. It follows the adventures of a seventeen-year-old boy named Alison Dale, who embarks on his first sea voyage aboard the ship Burgh Castle. The narrative hints at themes of courage, friendship, and the conflicts that arise during the voyage, especially with the crew and among the passengers. The opening of the story introduces Alison as he navigates the chaotic environment of the shipyard, where he is about to set sail. Here, he encounters a mix of characters, including his fellow midshipman Nicholas Walters and a rough crew led by an abrasive captain. The atmosphere is charged with tension, signaled by an accident during the rigging process, and foreshadowing a mutiny led by a problematic crew member named Jarette. Additionally, Alison's internal musings reveal his eagerness for adventure, coupled with the uncertainties of a new experience at sea. This sets the stage for a series of thrilling events that will challenge his resolve and test his seamanship skills.
Agnes Giberne
Willie and Lucy at the sea-side : $b For very little children
No description available.
William Drysdale
The Young Supercargo: A Story of the Merchant Marine
"The Young Supercargo: A Story of the Merchant Marine" by William Drysdale is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Christopher "Kit" Silburn, a young and ambitious boy who seeks adventure and a better life by venturing to sea as a cabin boy on the steamship "North Cape". This tale captures his journey from homelessness to finding a place aboard the ship, where he learns about responsibility, maturity, and the challenges of maritime life. Kit’s character as a determined and honest boy is likely to resonate with readers who enjoy stories of personal growth against a backdrop of adventure. At the start of the narrative, Kit finds himself in Brooklyn, trying to escape his precarious life as a homeless boy. After a series of misunderstandings with a police officer, he is fortunate enough to be taken under the wing of Captain Griffith of the "North Cape", who offers him a position as a cabin boy. As Kit begins his adventure at sea, he reflects on his background, including his family and the disappearance of his father at sea. The initial chapters effectively set the stage, showcasing Kit's determination and positive outlook amidst adversity, while also introducing readers to the dynamics of life at sea in the late 1800s.
Mayne Reid
The Flag of Distress: A Story of the South Sea
"The Flag of Distress: A Story of the South Sea" by Captain Mayne Reid is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story unfolds around a mysterious barque displaying an inverted Chilian flag, signaling distress but sailing away at full speed, prompting a British frigate to pursue it. The tale begins with the intriguing chase across the Pacific, revealing strange elements such as the unusual clothing of the barque's crew and the possibility of supernatural events, setting the stage for an adventurously captivating narrative. The opening of the novel introduces us to a British naval frigate chasing a Chilian barque that is signaling for help with its flag upside down, despite being under full sail. As the captain and crew pursue this seemingly distressed vessel, they begin to ponder the enigma behind its behavior. Initially dismissing the barque as a phantom, the crew's curiosity intensifies once they spot strange figures aboard, later revealed to be orangutans. This fascinating premise sets the tone for an adventure filled with mystery and the promise of unraveling a deeper saga involving the fate of the missing crew and the adrift barque itself.
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.
George Pugh
At the back of the world : $b Wanderings over many lands and seas
"At the Back of the World: Wanderings over Many Lands and Seas" by George and Jennie Pugh is a memoir likely written in the early 20th century. The account chronicles the maritime adventures of the author, who, fascinated by the sea from a young age, embarks on a journey filled with exploration, camaraderie, and personal growth as he encounters different cultures and challenges along the oceans. The narrative is likely enriched with vivid descriptions of various locations and the lessons learned throughout his travels. The opening of the work introduces us to a young boy from Liverpool who dreams of becoming a sailor, captivated by the stories shared by sailors at the docks. The narrative unfolds as he recalls how, after a series of incidents, his mother sends him to sea at the age of fourteen, paving the way for a life of adventure. We follow him as he secures a position aboard a ship, the "Bertie," and begins his apprenticeship as an ordinary seaman, learning the ropes under the guidance of his mentors and forming friendships with his crewmates while eager to embrace the challenges of life at sea.
Unknown
The Captain's Story; or, The Disobedient Son
"The Captain's Story; or, The Disobedient Son" by William S. Martin is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Captain Francis Buchman, a once wayward son who, after years of disobedience and hardship, returns to his native village to confront his past and seek redemption. The narrative explores themes of repentance, the weight of a parent's curse, and the journey towards reconciliation with oneself and one’s history. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to a weary stranger, an old sea captain, making his way to a ruined castle, recalling his childhood memories after many years away. He encounters a pastor in a nearby village, where the captain is offered hospitality. The village buzzes with excitement upon learning of the captain's arrival, revealing his longstanding reputation as a "scapegrace" and the son of the former pastor. The captain's return stirs curiosity about his mysterious past, as he grapples with reflections on his disobedience to his father and his subsequent tumultuous life at sea. As he begins to share his story, the villagers and children eagerly await to hear tales of his adventures and the lessons learned along his journey, setting the stage for a profound exploration of his life choices and spiritual transformation.
Gordon Stables
The naval cadet: A story of adventures on land and sea
"The Naval Cadet: A Story of Adventures on Land and Sea" by Dr. Gordon Stables is a novel written in the late 19th century. This adventure tale centers around a young boy named Creggan M'Vayne, who lives a wild and adventurous life on the Isle of Skye with his guardian, the hermitic Tomnahurich. The story explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the transition from boyhood to the responsibilities of adulthood, often set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish landscape and the perilous sea. At the start of the story, Creggan is introduced as a spirited 14-year-old boy who is well-known and beloved among the locals for his generosity and independence. After a chance encounter with Mr. Nugent, who is seeking a guide over the mountains, Creggan's life takes a turn as he forms a bond with Nugent's family. As a storm brews on the horizon, Creggan and Nugent's adventure takes a perilous twist when they find themselves lost in a Highland mist, leading to a rescue by the local shepherd Donald. This opening portion sets the stage for a tale filled with excitement, danger, and the beauty of youth in the face of challenges.
George Cupples
The Green Hand: Adventures of a Naval Lieutenant
"The Green Hand: Adventures of a Naval Lieutenant" by George Cupples is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the experiences of young Ned Collins, a nascent sailor, as he embarks on his maritime journey aboard an Indiaman ship, encountering various challenges and colorful characters. The narrative promises a blend of adventure, humor, and insights into naval life during a time when the sea was still a realm of mystery and excitement. The opening of the novel introduces us to a lively scene on the deck of the Indiaman "Gloucester", where shipmates gather to listen to tales spun by the old sailor, Old Jack. As he begins recounting the story of young Ned Collins—the titular 'Green Hand'—the narrative unfolds amid the camaraderie of sailors who tease and share stories between their duties. Old Jack's evocative depiction of the past reveals not only the humorous misadventures of Collins as he transitions into a true sailor but also highlights the unique, rugged charm of life at sea, marked by the voices and experiences of the old salts who have weathered many storms. The stage is set for a rich exploration of naval adventures and the growth of Collins into seasoned maritime character.
Gordon Stables
Wild Adventures round the Pole Or, The Cruise of the "Snowbird" Crew in the "Arrandoon"
"Wild Adventures Round the Pole" by Gordon Stables is an adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the journey of Ralph Leigh and his companions, Captain McBain and Rory Elphinston, as they embark on an expedition aboard the steam yacht "Arrandoon." Set against the backdrop of the Scottish Highlands and the mysterious North Pole, the book likely explores themes of exploration, camaraderie, and the beauty and dangers of nature. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to the picturesque scenery of Scotland, where two rivers, the Clyde and the Tweed, embark on their journeys. We meet Ralph, a young Englishman, and Captain McBain, who have a history of adventures together. As they oversee the building of the ship destined for the North Pole, we see their connections with the local workers and the camaraderie that exists among the crew, setting the stage for the thrilling escapades yet to come. Ralph's Highland home and delightful interactions with a kind widow and her daughter, Jeannie, add layers to his character, hinting at his adventurous spirit and longing for connection. The scene is painted with vivid descriptions of nature, the joy of creation, and the anticipation of the adventures that await as the crew prepares to set sail.
Unknown
Yule Logs: Longmans' Christmas Annual for 1898
"Yule Logs: Longmans' Christmas Annual for 1898" by G. A. Henty is a collection of stories and articles compiled for the Christmas season, written during the late 19th century. This anthology features tales of adventure and imaginative exploits, capturing the spirit of the holiday while providing entertainment for readers of all ages. The opening story, "A Fighting Mermaid," sets the stage for thrilling narratives around themes of innovation and daring adventures, particularly focusing on a submarine named the "Mermaid" and its hopeful potential to change the tide of maritime warfare. The beginning of the collection introduces readers to Professor Rivers, who has developed a new submarine, the "Mermaid", promising to revolutionize naval warfare. We meet his young assistants, Carlos Moranza and Carl Baldwin, who are particularly enthusiastic about the submarine's potential, especially in light of the struggles for Cuban independence. As they celebrate the successful trial of the "Mermaid", Carlos expresses a heartfelt desire to use it to aid his father's fight against Spanish oppression in Cuba. However, a telegram brings alarming news of his father's capture, setting the stage for a daring rescue mission that intertwines personal stakes with larger geopolitical conflicts.
Harry Collingwood
Under the Meteor Flag: Log of a Midshipman during the French Revolutionary War
"Under the Meteor Flag: Log of a Midshipman during the French Revolutionary War" by Harry Collingwood is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Ralph Chester, a young midshipman, as he embarks on naval adventures during the tumultuous times of the French Revolutionary War. The narrative features thrilling elements like shipwrecks, naval battles, and the challenges faced by Ralph and his compatriots at sea. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to the protagonist Ralph Chester, who reflects on his familial background and burgeoning desire to join the navy, much to his father's dismay. Ralph's journey begins aboard the gun-brig "Scourge" during her hasty departure from Spithead. As he acclimates to life at sea, Ralph faces practical jokes from fellow midshipmen and quickly learns the harsh realities of naval warfare, including a perilous man-overboard scenario where he courageously rescues a drowning crewman. The narrative sets a fast-paced tone filled with action and camaraderie, positioning Ralph for further exploits as he adjusts to the rigors of naval life amidst the backdrop of war.
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