Subject
Voyages around the world -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
The Airship "Golden Hind"
"The Airship 'Golden Hind'" by Percy F. Westerman is a thrilling adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around two ex-Royal Air Force officers, Kenneth Kenyon and Peter Bramsdean, who find themselves called back to the skies by their former commanding officer, Sir Reginald Fosterdyke. The plot unfolds as they prepare for a daring mission to circumnavigate the globe within twenty days, competing for a substantial prize while navigating obstacles both in the air and on the ground. At the start of the narrative, Kenyon and Bramsdean receive a telegram from Sir Reginald, hinting at a significant venture. They quickly transition from their civilian lives back into the world of aviation, driven by their shared passion for flying. Upon arriving at the baronet's estate, they learn of his plan to pilot the experimental airship "Golden Hind" around the world—a monumental task with inherent dangers. As preparations for the journey begin, a sense of urgency unfolds when they realize they are racing against rival competitors, including a German count who may not be playing fair. The opening sets an exciting tone for an explorative adventure filled with themes of courage, camaraderie, and competition.
William Henry Giles Kingston
A Voyage round the World A book for boys
"A Voyage Round the World" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a boys' adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy named Harry Hopeton, who dreams of adventure at sea after being inspired by a family friend, Captain Frankland, a seasoned navigator. As Harry prepares for his first maritime journey aboard the ship Triton, he bids farewell to his beloved family, eager for the experiences that await him. The opening portion of the book introduces Harry's idyllic home life, filled with fond memories of his playful siblings and devoted parents. On the day of his departure, Harry is filled with mixed emotions as he leaves behind his family for the excitement of life at sea. Captain Frankland assures Harry of his capabilities and readiness to guide him during the voyage. After encouraging him to focus on his studies, Captain Frankland ultimately supports Harry's ambition to join him and navigate the world. This beginning sets the stage for Harry's transformation from a wistful boy into an adventurous sailor, tackling new challenges and discovering far-off lands.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Off to Sea: The Adventures of Jovial Jack Junker on his Road to Fame
"Off to Sea: The Adventures of Jovial Jack Junker on his Road to Fame" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story centers around Jovial Jack Junker, a content, optimistic young boy who aspires to adventure at sea and ultimately find fame, narrated through his childhood and early experiences in the navy. The narrative unfolds with Jack's journey from his tumultuous family life to life aboard a ship, highlighting themes of bravery and camaraderie. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jack, who describes his cheerful disposition and the challenges he faces growing up in a family overshadowed by the loss of their mother. Following family strife, Jack is determined to go to sea, emboldened by a chance meeting with a boy named Richard, whose life he saves from drowning. This encounter leads him to the world of naval adventures, presenting a vivid picture of ship life and the camaraderie among the crew. The opening sets the stage for Jack's transition from boyhood to the trials of naval life, suggesting a story filled with action, growth, and the pursuit of one's dreams.
John Andrew Higginson
A Boy's Adventures Round the World
"A Boy's Adventures Round the World" by John Andrew Higginson is a fictional novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Jack Clewlin, a young boy with dreams of adventure at sea, following his journey from home in Stonewell to embarking on a life-changing voyage aboard the clipper ship "Silver Crown." The narrative weaves elements of nautical life, personal growth, and the challenges of maintaining one's principles amidst worldly temptations. The opening of this tale introduces Jack Clewlin, who, longing for a life at sea, chooses to become an apprentice sailor rather than pursue a mundane clerkship. It details his early years, his relationship with his father, Captain Clewlin, and the moral values instilled in him by his mother. As Jack prepares to embark on his first voyage aboard the "Silver Crown," the ship's grandeur and the sincerity of his father's advice on faith and personal integrity set the tone for the adventures and trials he will face at sea. The initial chapters highlight the excitement of setting sail, establishing Jack's character as both determined and principled, which are key traits that will guide him throughout his journey.
Hugh McAlister
The Flight of the Silver Ship: Around the World Aboard a Giant Dirgible
"The Flight of the Silver Ship: Around the World Aboard a Giant Dirigible" by Hugh McAlister is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around David Ellison, a determined young man whose dreams of becoming an aviator are interrupted when he decides to leave prep school to support his family after his father's death in the Air Corps. Despite his sacrifices, David's passion for dirigibles drives him to seize an unexpected opportunity to join the crew of a giant airship, the Moonbeam, as an assistant pilot. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to David as he grapples with his decision to abandon college plans in favor of earning a living to help his family. His heartfelt farewell to his friends reveals his character as selfless and hardworking. As David receives news about the dirigible school, his excitement builds, and he resolves to pursue his aspiration of flying despite the obstacles he faces. The narrative sets the stage for David's journey toward a life-changing adventure aboard the Moonbeam, hinting at themes of friendship, ambition, and the excitement of exploration as the story unfolds toward its maiden voyage around the world.
James Grant
Jack Manly; His Adventures by Sea and Land
"Jack Manly; His Adventures by Sea and Land" by James Grant is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the main character Jack Manly, who embarks on various nautical adventures, fueled by his yearning for freedom and escape from a mundane life. Through exciting escapades, the narrative promises to explore themes of adventure, friendship, and the challenges faced in the treacherous waters and icy landscapes. At the start of the novel, Jack Manly reflects on his discontentment with life at his father's merchant counting-room in Newfoundland, desperately longing for adventure and an escape from his monotonous routine. When his spirited friend Bob Hartly invites him to join a sealing expedition on his brig, the Leda, Jack eagerly accepts. The narrative captures Jack's swift decision to leave behind his drudgery as he prepares to embark on this dangerous voyage, facing unexpected perils, including a fierce pirate ship known as the Black Schooner. This gripping beginning sets the stage for a tale filled with daring escapades and icy challenges, enticing readers to delve further into Jack's thrilling life at sea.
Chelsea Curtis Fraser
Around the World in Ten Days
"Around the World in Ten Days" by Chelsea Curtis Fraser is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows two young American boys, Paul and Bob, who are inspired by an upcoming worldwide air derby and the rapidly advancing field of aviation. With their brilliant idea of constructing their own airplane, the Sky-Bird II, the boys aim to participate in an adventure that not only pushes the boundaries of aviation but could also lead them to surprising discoveries and life-changing experiences. At the start of the story, we meet Paul Ross and Robert Giddings, who learn about an air derby set to occur that summer, prompting dreams of adventure and competition. As the boys discuss the challenges of air travel, they encounter a variety of characters, including a troubled former pilot. Equipped with youthful ambition, they collaborate on the design of the Sky-Bird II, a revolutionary aircraft they hope will redefine the limits of flying. The narrative sets the stage for their exciting journey, filled with technical innovations and personal growth, as they navigate obstacles both in the skies and within their own lives.
Herbert Strang
Round the World in Seven Days
"Round the World in Seven Days" by Herbert Strang is an adventure novel written in the early 20th century. Following the protagonist, Lieutenant Charles Thesiger Smith, the narrative captures his exhilarating journey to save his father, a famed geologist stranded on an island in the Solomon Sea, after their ship wrecks during a storm. The story is filled with suspense as Smith pilots his aeroplane across vast distances, encountering various challenges and strange lands along the way. The opening of the book establishes a dramatic scenario with the shipwreck of the "Albatross", led by Lieutenant George Underhill, who faces a cyclone while navigating the Solomon Islands. As the ship succumbs to the storm, Dr. Thesiger Smith and his son Tom are introduced, hinting at their significant roles in the unfolding story. Shortly after, the perspective shifts to Lieutenant Charles Thesiger Smith, who is grounded in an unforeseen mishap during his flight, ultimately learning of his father's dire situation through a distressing newspaper article. This ignites his determination to embark on an urgent journey to provide help, setting the stage for a series of thrilling escapades as he maneuvers to secure resources and navigate a perilous course around the globe.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Antony Waymouth; Or, The Gentlemen Adventurers
"Antony Waymouth; Or, The Gentlemen Adventurers" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical adventure novel written in the mid-19th century. Set in the Elizabethan era, the story follows the exploits of its eponymous hero, Antony Waymouth, as he embarks on daring maritime adventures alongside a friend, Edward Raymond. The novel captures a period of naval exploration, filled with tales of courage, treasure, and the perils of seafaring life. The opening of the novel introduces two young men, Antony Waymouth and Ned Raymond, as they reconnect in Plymouth. As Waymouth shares vivid details of his maritime exploits, recounting adventures of treasure and danger amidst various ships and sea battles, he invites Raymond to join him on a new expedition seeking riches in the East. The narrative quickly establishes their contrasting backgrounds, with Waymouth as the adventurous sailor and Raymond as the more grounded scholar yet longing for adventure. The scene is set for a journey filled with promises of fortune and discovery, while hints of personal conflicts surrounding love and ambition are woven into their budding plans.
Claude Grahame-White
Luftseilerens Skat
"Luftseilerens Skat" by Claude Grahame-White and Harry Harper is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the thrilling world of early aviation, following the skilled aviator Allen Dale as he faces various challenges, including treacherous weather conditions and the intrigue of hidden treasures. The narrative suggests a blend of technical detail about flight and an engaging treasure hunt that pulls in the reader's interest. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Allen Dale, a renowned aviator, who is conducting a test flight under adverse weather conditions. As he pilots his aircraft against strong gusts of wind, observers are both anxious and fascinated by his skill. The tension builds as Dale's plane struggles against the elements, leading to a near crash that he expertly manages to avoid by aiming for an unsuspecting hangar roof rather than the ground. This daring escape sets the tone for the unfolding adventure and hints at a larger story involving hidden treasures that play a significant role in the plot, as revealed in conversations about a secret involving a pirate ancestor and a quest for fortune.
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