The Young Trawler By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)
The Young Trawler by Robert Michael Ballantyne is an adventurous and captivating tale that takes readers on an unforgettable journey into the world of deep-sea fishing. Set in the quaint fishing village of Brixham, England, the story follows the thrilling exploits of young Tom Coppin and his companions aboard the trawler Ripple. Ballantyne's vivid descriptions transport readers to the unforgiving waters of the North Sea, where danger lurks at every turn. Through his masterful storytelling, he skillfully depicts the harsh realities and joys of life as a fisherman, providing readers with a unique glimpse into this perilous profession. What sets The Young Trawler apart is its authentic depiction of characters. Tom Coppin, in particular, resonates with readers as an immensely relatable protagonist. His determination, resilience, and unwavering spirit make him instantly likable. As readers join Tom on his treacherous adventures, they become deeply invested in his growth, successes, and setbacks. The novel also excellently touches upon the camaraderie and strong bonds formed among the crew members of the Ripple. Ballantyne expertly portrays their shared struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and friendship in the face of adversity. Moreover, The Young Trawler is not solely focused on thrilling sea voyages and fishing escapades. Ballantyne seamlessly weaves important themes into the narrative, such as the preservation of marine life, the impact of human activities on the environment, and the power of determination and perseverance in overcoming insurmountable challenges. The author's attention to detail is commendable. From the sound of crashing waves to the smell of saltwater, Ballantyne transports readers to the heart of the action, immersing them completely in the story. The knowledge and insights he imparts regarding the intricacies of fishing techniques and the diverse marine wildlife are both educational and enriching. However, despite its many strengths, The Young Trawler is not without flaws. The pacing occasionally falters, particularly during certain sections that drag on, diminishing the overall momentum of the plot. Additionally, while the book excels in capturing the essence of its setting, some readers might find the extensive nautical terminology and jargon slightly overwhelming. Overall, The Young Trawler is an engaging, educational, and thought-provoking read that will appeal to both young and adult audiences. Ballantyne's knack for storytelling, coupled with his genuine portrayal of characters and seafaring life, make this novel an exquisite addition to the genre. Despite a few minor shortcomings, this book skillfully captures the challenges, triumphs, and wonders of life at sea, leaving readers yearning for another exhilarating journey beyond the horizon. First Page: THE YOUNG TRAWLER, BY R.M. BALLANTYNE. CHAPTER ONE. INTRODUCES DEEP SEA FISHERMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES. On a certain breezy morning in October not many years ago a wilderness of foam rioted wildly over those dangerous sands which lie off the port of Yarmouth, where the Evening Star , fishing smack, was getting ready for sea. In one of the narrow lanes or "Rows" peculiar to that town, the skipper of the smack stood at his own door, grumbling. He was a broad burly man, a little past the prime of life, but prematurely aged by hard work and hard living. "He's always out o' the way when he's wanted, an' always in the way when he's not wanted," said the skipper angrily to his wife, of whom he was at the moment taking, as one of his mates remarked, a tender farewell. "Don't be hard on him, David," pleaded the wife, tearfully, as she looked up in her husband's face. "He's only a bit thoughtless; and I shouldn't wonder if he was already down at the smack." "If he's not," returned the fisherman with a frown, as he clenched his huge right hand and a hard and horny hand it was, from constant grappling with ropes, oars, hand spikes, and the like "if he's not, I'll " He stopped abruptly, as he looked down at his wife's eyes, and the frown faded. No wonder, for that wife's eyes were soft and gentle, and her face was fair and very attractive as well as refined in expression, though not particularly pretty... Continue reading book >>

The Young Trawler By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)

The Young Trawler by Robert Michael Ballantyne is an adventurous and captivating tale that takes readers on an unforgettable journey into the world of deep-sea fishing. Set in the quaint fishing village of Brixham, England, the story follows the thrilling exploits of young Tom Coppin and his companions aboard the trawler Ripple.

Ballantyne's vivid descriptions transport readers to the unforgiving waters of the North Sea, where danger lurks at every turn. Through his masterful storytelling, he skillfully depicts the harsh realities and joys of life as a fisherman, providing readers with a unique glimpse into this perilous profession.

What sets The Young Trawler apart is its authentic depiction of characters. Tom Coppin, in particular, resonates with readers as an immensely relatable protagonist. His determination, resilience, and unwavering spirit make him instantly likable. As readers join Tom on his treacherous adventures, they become deeply invested in his growth, successes, and setbacks.

The novel also excellently touches upon the camaraderie and strong bonds formed among the crew members of the Ripple. Ballantyne expertly portrays their shared struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and friendship in the face of adversity.

Moreover, The Young Trawler is not solely focused on thrilling sea voyages and fishing escapades. Ballantyne seamlessly weaves important themes into the narrative, such as the preservation of marine life, the impact of human activities on the environment, and the power of determination and perseverance in overcoming insurmountable challenges.

The author's attention to detail is commendable. From the sound of crashing waves to the smell of saltwater, Ballantyne transports readers to the heart of the action, immersing them completely in the story. The knowledge and insights he imparts regarding the intricacies of fishing techniques and the diverse marine wildlife are both educational and enriching.

However, despite its many strengths, The Young Trawler is not without flaws. The pacing occasionally falters, particularly during certain sections that drag on, diminishing the overall momentum of the plot. Additionally, while the book excels in capturing the essence of its setting, some readers might find the extensive nautical terminology and jargon slightly overwhelming.

Overall, The Young Trawler is an engaging, educational, and thought-provoking read that will appeal to both young and adult audiences. Ballantyne's knack for storytelling, coupled with his genuine portrayal of characters and seafaring life, make this novel an exquisite addition to the genre. Despite a few minor shortcomings, this book skillfully captures the challenges, triumphs, and wonders of life at sea, leaving readers yearning for another exhilarating journey beyond the horizon.

First Page:

THE YOUNG TRAWLER, BY R.M. BALLANTYNE.

CHAPTER ONE.

INTRODUCES DEEP SEA FISHERMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES.

On a certain breezy morning in October not many years ago a wilderness of foam rioted wildly over those dangerous sands which lie off the port of Yarmouth, where the Evening Star , fishing smack, was getting ready for sea.

In one of the narrow lanes or "Rows" peculiar to that town, the skipper of the smack stood at his own door, grumbling. He was a broad burly man, a little past the prime of life, but prematurely aged by hard work and hard living.

"He's always out o' the way when he's wanted, an' always in the way when he's not wanted," said the skipper angrily to his wife, of whom he was at the moment taking, as one of his mates remarked, a tender farewell.

"Don't be hard on him, David," pleaded the wife, tearfully, as she looked up in her husband's face.

"He's only a bit thoughtless; and I shouldn't wonder if he was already down at the smack."

"If he's not," returned the fisherman with a frown, as he clenched his huge right hand and a hard and horny hand it was, from constant grappling with ropes, oars, hand spikes, and the like "if he's not, I'll "

He stopped abruptly, as he looked down at his wife's eyes, and the frown faded. No wonder, for that wife's eyes were soft and gentle, and her face was fair and very attractive as well as refined in expression, though not particularly pretty... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Sea stories
Teen/Young adult

eBook links
Wikipedia – Robert Michael Ballantyne
Wikipedia – The Young Trawler

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