Subject
Sudan -- History -- 1881-1899 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Lewis Hough
For Fortune and Glory: A Story of the Soudan War
"For Fortune and Glory: A Story of the Soudan War" by Lewis Hough is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story interweaves themes of adventure, familial duty, and colonial conflict, centering on young Harry Forsyth who navigates personal challenges amidst the backdrop of the Soudan War. As events unfold, Harry's quest for understanding his family's past and securing his future in a rapidly changing world drives the narrative. At the start of the book, readers meet Harry Forsyth as he returns home from boarding school, eager to reunite with his family. The opening chapters reveal his affection for his mother and sister, as well as the introduction of a mysterious uncle, Ralph Burke, who has returned from living among "wild men" in the desert and brings with him secrets that could alter Harry’s life. The story hints at dark familial secrets, particularly regarding a missing will linked to his uncle that has lingering implications for the family's fortune. This blend of personal and historical exploration sets the stage for adventure and moral dilemmas to come as the characters confront their legacies amidst the backdrop of war.
Henryk Sienkiewicz
In Desert and Wilderness
"In Desert and Wilderness" by Henryk Sienkiewicz is a young adult novel written in 1911. When fourteen-year-old Polish boy Staś and eight-year-old English girl Nell are kidnapped by rebels during the Mahdist War in Sudan, they endure a harrowing journey through the Sahara Desert. After a desperate act of survival leaves them stranded deep in Africa, the two children must navigate treacherous wilderness, dangerous wildlife, and disease as they search for rescue and a way home.
Henryk Sienkiewicz
Through the Desert
"Through the Desert" by Henryk Sienkiewicz is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the adventures of two children, Stasch Tarkowski and Little Nell, as they navigate a tumultuous landscape of political unrest and personal danger in Egypt during the Mahdist revolt. With elements of friendship, bravery, and exploration, the narrative delves into themes of loyalty and the innocence of youth amidst perilous circumstances. At the start of the story, Stasch and Nell are introduced as close friends living in Port Said, Egypt. The narrative begins with their discussions about the Mahdi and the political upheaval affecting their lives, particularly regarding the imprisonment of the wife and children of a government overseer. As the children prepare to accompany their fathers on a journey to inspect canal works in Medinet, their excitement quickly shifts into tension when they realize they are being watched by suspicious figures. The opening chapters set the stage for their eventual kidnapping, revealing the dire circumstances they are thrust into as they navigate their fears and rely on each other for support and protection.
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