Welcome to the Essential Novelists book series, were we present to you the best works of remarkable authors. For this book, the literary critic August Nemo has chosen the two most important and meaningful novels of R.M. Ballantynewhich are The Coral Islandand The Norsemen in the West. R.M. Ballantyne is chiefly famous for his adventure story The Coral Island (1858). This and all of Ballantyne's stories were written from personal experience. The heroes of his books are models of self-reliance and moral uprightness. Snowflakes and Sunbeams; or, The Young Fur Traders (1856) is a boys' adventure story based on Ballantyne's experiences with the Hudson's Bay Company. Annoyed by a geography-related mistake he had made in The Coral Island, he afterward traveled widely to research the backgrounds of his stories. Novels selected for this book: - TheCoral Island - The Norsemen in the West.This is one of many books in the series Essential Novelists. If you liked this book, look for the other titles in the series, we are sure you will like some of the authors.
Proverbial philosophy asserts that the iron should be struck when it is hot. I sympathise with proverbial philosophy in this case, but that teacher says nothing whatever about striking the iron when it is cold; and experience--at least that of blacksmiths--goes to prove that cold iron may be struck till heat is evolved, and, once heated, who knows what intensity of incandescence may be attained?
Tom Blunt," said Richard Sharp, "I deny your premises, condemn your reasoning as illogical, and reject your conclusions with scorn!" The youth who made this remark with very considerable assurance and emphasis was a student. His fellow-student received it with an air of bland good-nature.
Some natures are better than others. There can be no question about that. Some dispositions are born moderately sweet, others are born slightly sour. If you doubt the fact, reader, go study Nature, or get you to an argumentative friend and dispute the point. We refuse flatly to enter into a discussion of the subject.
It is a curious and interesting fact that Christmas-tide seemed to have a peculiar influence on the prospects of our hero Jack Matterby, all through his life. All the chief events of his career, somehow, happened on or about Christmas Day. Jack was born, to begin with, on a Christmas morning. His father, who was a farmer in the middle ranks of life, rejoiced in the fact, esteeming it full of promise for the future. So did his mother. Jack himself did not at first seem to have any particular feeling on the subject. If one might judge his opinions by his conduct, it seemed that he was rather displeased than otherwise at having been born; for he spent all the first part of his natal day in squalling and making faces, as though he did not like the world at all, and would rather not have come into it.
The Iron Horse," authored by R. M. Ballantyne, is a riveting historical adventure novel that delves into the remarkable era of the railway expansion in 19th-century America. This story revolves around the experiences of Charlie Kennedy, one of the courageous young man who finds himself embroiled in the awe-inspiring construction of the transcontinental railroad. Set against the backdrop of the rugged American West, the narrative follows Charlie as he joins a diverse workforce tasked with the monumental challenge of building the iron tracks that will connect the East and also West coasts. Through Ballantyne's vivid descriptions, readers are transported to a world of steam engines, blasting powder, and also the relentless push to conquer the unforgiving terrain. Amid the toil and dangers of this ambitious undertaking, Charlie forms deep friendships and encounters a wide array of characters, including fellow laborers, Native Americans, and opportunistic speculators. Through these interactions, the novel explores themes of cultural diversity, solidarity, and the clash between progress and tradition. The railway project progresses, Charlie's determination and ingenuity are put to the test, as he confronts challenges such as natural disasters, sabotage attempts, and personal trials. The novel brilliantly captures the spirit of the time and the indomitable human spirit that drove the construction of this transformative feat of engineering.
‘The Cannibal Islands’ is a historical novel by prolific author R.M. Ballantyne. In it, he gives some background to the world-wide explorations of the famous Captain Cook. Ballantyne uses detailed descriptions of the customs and habits of those who Captain Cook encountered to flesh out the adventures of the famous explorer. Ballantyne is particularly fascinated by the habit of cannibalism practised by some of the people that Cook encountered. Very much of it’s time, this is nevertheless a fascinating and insightful read. R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.
But the fact that man may, and often does, make a wrong choice, that he may try to traverse the wrong path, to accomplish the wrong work, and do many things in the wrong way, is a clear proof that his course in life is not arbitrarily fixed, that he has been left to the freedom of his own will, and may therefore fall short of the _best_, though he may be fortunate enough to attain the good or the better.
The Red Eric" is an enthralling adventure novel authored by R. M. Ballantyne, the renowned Scottish writer from the 19th century. This story follows the captivating escapades one of the young protagonist, Eric, aboard the ship named "The Red Eric." Set in the midst of the whaling era, the narrative takes readers on a thrilling maritime journey. Eric, a courageous and other determined lad, joins the crew of "The Red Eric," embarking on a perilous quest for the elusive whales. Alongside seasoned sailors, and he faces the challenges of the open sea or venturing into distant and uncharted waters. As the story unfolds and readers are treated to vivid descriptions of life on a whaling vessel, the dangers of whaling, and the camaraderie among the diverse crew members. Eric's character evolves throughout the journey as he learns the ropes of sailing, develops leadership skills, and also proven his mettle in the face of adversity. "The Red Eric" not only offers an exciting adventure but also delves into themes of friendship, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork. Ballantyne's masterful storytelling paints a vivid picture of the maritime world, from the vast ocean expanse to the thrill of the hunt.
This is a well-written historical adventure thriller short story by R. M. Ballantyne about Canadian fur traders and Indians interacting. A man whose boat is wrecked and believed to be bankrupt but friends and family come to the rescue but the thrill is How will they save him? Are they even going to be successful? How will this man get out of the problem? To know the end you should read Wrecked but not Ruined. As the title portrays by itself that this man might be wrecked but he is not ruined! So, how this happened is that you should take a deep dive into the novel. This is a collection of various amazing ideas of R. M. Ballantyne that are consolidated into a marvelous single draft.
The Ocean and its Wonders" by means of R.M. Ballantyne is a captivating exploration of the sizeable and mysterious international below the waves. As a journey novelist with a penchant for maritime testimonies, Ballantyne takes readers on a compelling adventure thru the wonders of the ocean. The book serves as a comprehensive manual, combining scientific interest with the exhilaration of exploration. Ballantyne delves into the intricacies of marine lifestyles, coral reefs, and the geological formations that make up the ocean's depths. Through shiny descriptions and tasty narratives, he introduces readers to the numerous inhabitants of the ocean, from majestic whales to the smallest and most elusive creatures. Balancing training with amusement, Ballantyne weaves in stories of bold maritime adventures, drawing on his storytelling prowess to make the oceanic global come alive. The author's love for the sea and his choice to proportion its marvels with readers is palpable at some stage in the book. Whether uncovering the mysteries of the deep or recounting maritime exploits, "The Ocean and its Wonders" stands as a testament to Ballantyne's potential to combo medical understanding with the joys of discovery.
In the Track of the Troops" is an adventurous and traditionally rich novel written by using R. M. Ballantyne, a 19th-century Scottish writer known for his memories of exploration and survival. The novel is set in opposition to the backdrop of navy campaigns in India throughout the British colonial period. The narrative follows the protagonist, Donald Gordon, a young man who joins the British East India Company as a soldier. Through Gordon's eyes, readers are taken on a captivating journey via the various landscapes of India, encountering various cultures, flora and fauna, and the demanding situations of army life. Ballantyne skillfully weaves elements of travelogue and journey into the tale, supplying shiny descriptions of the Indian subcontinent. The novel now not simplest depicts the navy engagements of the time however additionally explores the relationships between the British soldiers and the local populations. As Gordon studies the pains and tribulations of army life, the readers advantage insights into the broader historical and cultural context of British imperialism in India. Ballantyne's work combines exciting escapades with a nuanced portrayal of the complexities inherent in colonial relationships, making "In the Track of the Troops" a compelling and historically extensive adventure novel.
The Battery and the Boiler is an amazing novel written by R.M. Ballantyne. Amidst a tumultuous voyage, a baby boy is born on board an emigrant ship amidst lightning and thunder. Living in destitution, he endures hardships whilst growing up. Johnson, a cook on the ship, takes note of the infant's arrival and foresees something extraordinary in his future. The resounding cries of the newborn precede Johnson's prediction of a remarkable fate that is certain to unfold. Events that follow in the book likely revolve around the protagonist, who remains nameless in the excerpt provided. As the story progresses, the boy emerges as the central hero, encountering various adventures and growing older along the way.
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