Subject
Whaling -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
A. Hyatt (Alpheus Hyatt) Verrill
The Deep Sea Hunters: Adventures on a Whaler
"The Deep Sea Hunters: Adventures on a Whaler" by A. Hyatt Verrill is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows young boys, Tom Chester and Jim Lathrop, who are filled with excitement when they learn that the abandoned old whaling ship, the "Hector", is being restored for a real voyage. The narrative is steeped in the nostalgia of whaling adventures, exploring both the boys’ imaginations and their quest for adventure onboard the ship that has served as a playground for them in their youth. At the start of the novel, the boys run to check the exciting news about the "Hector" being outfitted for a cruise, a ship they had played on for years. Much to their surprise, they discover the owner intends to restore her for an actual whaling expedition to the South Shetlands to hunt sea elephants. With the help of Cap’n Pem, an old sailor who shares tales of his whaling days, they eagerly contemplate joining the crew. Their enthusiasm grows as they navigate the challenges of adulthood and embark on an adventure filled with rich maritime history, camaraderie, and the promise of excitement on the high seas.
A. Hyatt (Alpheus Hyatt) Verrill
Deep Sea Hunters in the Frozen Seas
"Deep Sea Hunters in the Frozen Seas" by A. Hyatt Verrill is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around two adventurous boys, Jim and Tom, who, eager for excitement, become embroiled in an Arctic whaling expedition on an old schooner named the Narwhal, alongside seasoned sailors including the colorful Cap’n Pem and Mike. Their journey promises thrilling encounters with wildlife and perilous adventures in the frozen seas. The opening of the story introduces us to Cap’n Pem and his friend Mike, two old mariners, at a wharf, discussing the fate of the derelict schooner Narwhal as she is brought in by a tugboat. The old sailors banter and argue, establishing their camaraderie and colorful personalities. Soon, two boys from their past adventures, Jim and Tom, learn about the schooner’s planned Arctic cruise and express a desire to join, leading to discussions about their parents' concerns regarding safety and the old crew. As the plot unfolds, the boys' determination and cleverness result in their ownership of the Narwhal, setting the stage for their upcoming adventure filled with challenges and the excitement of Arctic whaling.
George Fox Tucker
The Boy Whaleman
"The Boy Whaleman" by George Fox Tucker is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the youthful protagonist, Homer Bleechly, as he prepares to embark on a whaling voyage from New Bedford, the largest whaling port in the world at that time. The narrative explores themes of adventure, the challenges of seafaring life, and the allure of the sea through the experiences of a boy determined to follow in his father's footsteps as a whaleman. The opening of the book sets the stage for Homer's journey, rooted in his fascination with whaling inspired by his father's tales. As a twelve-year-old, he dreams of going to sea, despite his mother’s concerns for his safety. The first chapter describes his growing eagerness as he interacts with a kind shipkeeper who introduces him to the world of whaling gear. Although Homer initially attempts to stow away on a ship, he ultimately returns home after a stern but understanding conversation with his parents, who eventually agree to let him join a whaling crew when he is older. This opening establishes not only Homer's aspirations but also the historical context of whaling, offering readers a glimpse into the rigors and romance associated with life at sea.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Old Jack
"Old Jack" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story narrates the life of a seaman named Jack Williams, who embarks on a tumultuous maritime career that unfolds in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The plot captures the adventurous and often perilous life at sea, showcasing Jack's experiences aboard various ships, including man-of-wars and merchantmen, as well as his encounters with a variety of characters, such as sailors and cannibals. The opening of "Old Jack" introduces us to young Jack Williams, a boy whose early life is marked by the loss of his mother and the subsequent decline of his father's wellbeing, leading to his tragic death at Donnybrook Fair. After losing his father, Jack is taken under the wing of a tall sailor named Peter Poplar, who offers him a new life at sea aboard the brig "Rainbow". The narrative vividly illustrates Jack’s transformation from an orphaned boy to an aspiring sailor, as well as the stark realities of life on board, including both its hardships and camaraderie, setting the stage for the adventures that lie ahead.
Winthrop Packard
The Young Ice Whalers
"The Young Ice Whalers" by Winthrop Packard is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Harry Desmond, a seventeen-year-old boy who faces a significant shift in his life plans due to his family's financial troubles. Instead of pursuing his education, Harry decides to join a whaling expedition in the Arctic, where he hopes to gain experience and assist his father in restoring their fortunes. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Harry Desmond, who learns that his father can no longer afford his education. Expressing a desire to support his family, Harry considers taking a clerkship in his father's office but is soon presented with an exciting opportunity: to join a whaling crew led by Captain Nickerson. After a series of events depicting Harry's upbringing and his relationship with his friend Maisie, he ultimately embarks on a journey filled with adventure, danger, and the promise of personal growth in the harsh and captivating world of Arctic whaling. The opening sets the stage for Harry's transformation from a carefree boy to a dedicated young man ready to face the challenges ahead.
Dwight Weldon
Under the Polar Star; or, The Young Explorers
"Under the Polar Star; or, The Young Explorers" by Dwight Weldon is a children's adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story likely revolves around themes of bravery and exploration as it introduces young characters facing both challenges and dangers, particularly in a maritime setting. The protagonist, Will Bertram, seems to be a determined and resourceful boy, eager to help his struggling family while also seeking adventure. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Will Bertram and his father, Solomon, a ship carpenter struggling with financial difficulties after losing his son on a whaling voyage. Will, enthusiastic and determined, approaches his father with money he earned by working as a steeple jack to help their family. Despite his father's reluctance to let him work on the sea, Will's curiosity and zest for adventure drive the narrative forward. The story hints at Will's subsequent endeavors, including his bold decision to engage in various escapades to uncover secrets surrounding their family's situation, which adds layers of mystery and tension to the unfolding tale.
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.
W. Bert (Walter Bertram) Foster
Swept Out to Sea; Or, Clint Webb Among the Whalers
"Swept Out to Sea; Or, Clint Webb Among the Whalers" by W. Bert Foster is a novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the adventures of Clint Webb, a young man with a passion for the sea, as he navigates the challenges of family conflict, treachery, and survival while engaging in whaling activities. The story begins with a quarrel between Clint and his cousin Paul Downes, which ultimately sets off a chain of events that leads to Clint being swept away to sea. The opening of the book introduces Clint Webb and his cousin Paul as they fish from their sloop, the Wavecrest. Their banter turns into a heated argument, resulting in a physical confrontation in which Clint ties Paul up after Paul attempts to use a knife against him. This quarrel not only reveals their tumultuous relationship but also indicates deeper familial tensions, particularly related to their fathers’ legacies. As Clint's emotions escalate, he makes impulsive decisions that put him into grave danger, foreshadowing the subsequent perilous journey at sea after being inadvertently cast adrift. The stage is set for Clint's maritime adventures and exploration of the whaling life, which promise to be fraught with excitement and challenges.
Francis C. (Francis Channing) Woodworth
Jack Mason, the Old Sailor
"Jack Mason, the Old Sailor" by Theodore Thinker is a charming children's book written in the mid-19th century. This narrative captures the adventurous tales of Jack Mason, an old sailor who regales children with stories of his experiences at sea, showcasing both his travels and the moral lessons learned throughout them. The book serves to entertain and educate young readers about the life of a sailor, emphasizing virtues such as honesty, kindness, and faith. The storyline unfolds through a series of captivating anecdotes that Jack shares, including encounters with icebergs, indigenous peoples, and whales. Each tale highlights Jack’s moral character, such as his refusal to swear or drink, contrasting him with the portrayals of sailors noted for their roughness. Among his adventures, Jack recounts a humorous yet perilous chase with a whale and poignant moments involving an Indian girl and a little boy named George, illustrating themes of compassion and the fragility of life. Ultimately, these stories are not just about excitement at sea but are intertwined with lessons about faith and the importance of kindness, making it a valuable read for children.
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.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Peter Trawl; Or, The Adventures of a Whaler
"Peter Trawl; Or, The Adventures of a Whaler" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. It tells the story of a young boy named Peter Trawl, whose life is turned upside down by a series of tragic events, leading him to a life of adventure at sea. As Peter faces the loss of his parents and his hardships in Portsmouth, he embarks on a journey aboard a whaling ship, seeking not only a new life but also his long-lost brother. The opening portion of the narrative introduces us to Peter's difficult circumstances, beginning with the deaths of his parents following the family's financial ruin. With their passing, Peter finds himself supported by a kind shipowner named Mr. Gray, who gives him the opportunity to work on a whaling vessel. As Peter navigates his new world, he learns valuable lessons about resilience and familial bonds, especially in his quest to reunite with his brother Jack, who sailed away prior to the story's beginning. This initial chapter sets the stage for Peter's adventures, illustrating themes of survival, adventure, and the power of friendship.
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.
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