Subject
Whalers (Persons) -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Harry Castlemon
Frank Nelson in the Forecastle; Or, The Sportman's Club Among the Whalers
"Frank Nelson in the Forecastle; Or, The Sportsman's Club Among the Whalers" by Harry Castlemon is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a group of adventurous boys, comprising the Sportsman's Club, as they navigate various challenges, including their recent escapades in the wilderness and their desire to embark on a whaling voyage. Main characters include Frank Nelson and the trapper Dick Lewis, who face both the humor and trepidation that comes with their transition from the wild landscapes to life aboard a ship. At the start of the narrative, the boys have just returned to San Francisco after an adventurous trip through the mountains. As they settle on the schooner “Stranger,” they discuss their experiences and the disparity between their rugged outdoor lives and the civilized world around them. The opening chapter sets the stage for their upcoming whaling expedition, contrasting their youthful bravado with the real dangers of seafaring, particularly when they encounter the notion of being "shanghaied"—kidnapped to serve on a ship against their will—which becomes a central tension in their journey. The characters express eagerness for new experiences, unaware of the perils that await them as their adventure unfolds.
R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne
The Red Eric
"The Red Eric" by R. M. Ballantyne is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins by introducing Captain Dunning, an eccentric and good-natured whale-ship captain, who is preparing for his next voyage while emphasizing his commitment to temperance among his crew. The narrative not only hints at an adventurous whaling expedition but also explores themes of family, particularly through Captain Dunning's relationship with his daughter, Ailie, who aspires to accompany him on this journey. At the start of the novel, the reader is drawn into the bustling atmosphere of a temperance coffee-house, where Captain Dunning is engaging a cook for his ship. His unique personality and opinions about the necessity of a temperance lifestyle create an amusing backdrop for the introducing of his character. The opening chapters also emphasize the emotional bond between Captain Dunning and little Ailie, as they share joyful and touching moments before he embarks on his voyage. The tension escalates with the captain's determination to bring her along, creating a conflict with his protective sisters. The blend of humor, adventure, and family themes sets the tone for an engaging maritime tale.
R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne
Fighting the Whales
"Fighting the Whales" by R. M. Ballantyne is a novel written in the mid-19th century. It recounts the adventures of Bob Ledbury, a young man who embarks on a whaling voyage to support his ailing mother, ultimately delving into the dangers and excitement of hunting whales in the open sea. The narrative promises themes of struggle, camaraderie, and the confrontation between man and nature. At the start of the story, Bob Ledbury, facing financial hardship after the death of his employer, is compelled to seek employment to support his mother. His chance encounter with a gruff sailor, Tom Lokins, leads to an offer to join a whaling ship headed for the South Seas. After securing his mother’s well-being with the help of a kind-hearted stranger, Bob eagerly sets sail. The opening sequence sets the stage for Bob's adventure as he adjusts to life at sea, capturing the astonishment and trepidation that accompany his first experiences in whaling, including facing storms and battling massive creatures of the ocean.
R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne
The World of Ice
"The World of Ice" by R. M. Ballantyne is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story follows John Buzzby, a seasoned sailor, and young Fred Ellice as they embark on the treacherous journey of whaling in the icy northern seas after enduring a series of harrowing adventures and challenges. The narrative delves into themes of courage, friendship, and the resilient spirit of man against nature. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to John Buzzby, who stands vigilantly on the pier, preparing for a whaling voyage aboard a ship. He converses with a young boy named Fred, filled with ambition and longing for adventure but also sadness about being left behind by his father, Captain Ellice. The backdrop includes anecdotes of Captain Ellice's past and the deep bond shared with Fred, who faces both the excitement and dangers of the sea while grappling with the grief of losing his mother. The opening vividly sets the stage for an exploration of arctic dangers, family bonds, and the pursuit of discovery across the mesmerizing yet perilous icy landscapes.
R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne
Fighting the Whales
"Fighting the Whales" by R. M. Ballantyne is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story follows a young boy named Robert Ledbury, who, driven by the need to support his ailing mother, ends up embarking on a whaling voyage in the South Seas. The tale explores the exciting and perilous life at sea, detailing battles with massive sperm whales, as well as the camaraderie and rough existence of the whalemen. At the start of the novel, Robert struggles against poverty in his seaport town and is determined to secure a livelihood for himself and his mother after losing their last savings. He meets Tom Lokins, a seasoned sailor who offers him a chance to join a whaling expedition. Robert accepts the opportunity, and soon finds himself at sea, confronted with the awe-inspiring and terrifying task of hunting whales. The opening chapters introduce his challenges as he adapts to the dangers of whaling, including vivid descriptions of encounters with these colossal sea creatures and the manly culture of the crew.
William Henry Giles Kingston
The Two Whalers; Or, Adventures in the Pacific
"The Two Whalers; Or, Adventures in the Pacific" by W.H.G. Kingston is a maritime adventure novel written in the mid-19th century. It follows the journey of a young boy named Jack who embarks on a whaling voyage aboard the ship "Eagle." The narrative introduces themes of maritime life, camaraderie, and the challenges faced while exploring the treacherous waters of the Pacific. At the start of the story, Jack, a teenager from Deal, is inspired to take to the sea after his brother Bill returns from his own maritime adventures. Jack attends a nautical college and excels in his studies before sailing with Captain Hake. The opening captures Jack's excitement and trepidation as he navigates early challenges, including rough weather and encounters with mutineers and pirates. Jack's relationship with fellow apprentice Andrew Medley hints at the camaraderie and mutual support that will be essential throughout their perilous journey into the vast Pacific Ocean.
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