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Ran Away to Sea   By: (1818-1883)

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Ran Away to Sea by Mayne Reid is an adventurous tale that takes readers on an exciting journey through the high seas. The story follows the life of 12-year-old Frederick, who decides to leave behind his mundane existence and run away to become a sailor.

The novel begins with Frederick's difficult upbringing and his longing for something more in life. After an unfortunate incident involving his strict father, Frederick seizes the opportunity to escape the confines of his home and join a ship as a cabin boy.

The author beautifully captures the essence of life at sea, painting vivid pictures of the vast ocean, towering waves, and the camaraderie between sailors. Reid's attention to detail brings the story to life, allowing readers to feel as if they are right there alongside Frederick, experiencing every moment of his tumultuous journey.

One aspect that stands out in Ran Away to Sea is the character development. Frederick undergoes a tremendous transformation throughout the book, maturing from a naïve young boy to a seasoned sailor. His encounters with diverse characters, such as the brave Captain Crutchely and the enigmatic pirate Black Jack, shape his perspective on life and instill valuable life lessons.

Furthermore, the pacing of the novel is well-executed. The narrative moves at a brisk pace, keeping readers engaged and eager to find out what happens next. The frequent encounters with storms, shipwrecks, and treacherous adventures add an element of suspense and excitement that keeps the plot captivating from start to finish.

While the story primarily focuses on the adventures at sea, it also touches upon themes of friendship, loyalty, and resilience. Frederick forms deep bonds with his fellow sailors, and these relationships serve as a pillar of support in times of hardship. The book emphasizes the importance of trust, unity, and the strength that can be found in teamwork.

However, one potential drawback of Ran Away to Sea is the stereotypical portrayal of certain characters. Some of the minor characters are depicted using outdated, racial stereotypes, which can make readers uncomfortable. It is important to approach these aspects of the book with caution and acknowledge the historical context in which it was written.

Despite this flaw, Ran Away to Sea is an enthralling adventure that will appeal to readers of all ages. Mayne Reid's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions make it easy to get lost in the world of high-seas expeditions and daring escapades. This novel is a captivating blend of action, suspense, and coming-of-age themes that will leave readers thirsting for more.

First Page:

Ran Away to Sea, by Captain Mayne Reid.

Although this book seems to be very much like the sort of book Kingston wrote, it actually predates that author by a few years. It tells the story of a young boy, well brought up, who runs away to sea, despite his parents' wishes. Unfortunately he asks for a place on board a ship where many of the officers and crew are the vilest villains, and the trade they engage in is slaving, despite that trade having been banned half a century previously.

The story is told with all that sense of humour that Mayne Reid brings to his works, though there are some harrowing moments when the treatment of the "cargo" is being described.

This edition appeared just fifty years after the first edition, and it may have been slightly condensed, because the earlier edition had many more pages, though the edition used here has quite small, though very clear type. It would have been nice if the proofreader had done a better job.

RAN AWAY TO SEA, BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID.

CHAPTER ONE.

I was just sixteen when I ran away to sea.

I did not do so because I had been treated unkindly at home. On the contrary, I left behind me a fond and indulgent father, a kind and gentle mother, sisters and brothers who loved me, and who lamented for me long after I was gone... Continue reading book >>




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