Âmona; The Child; And The Beast; And Others From "The Strange Adventure Of James Shervinton and Other Stories" - 1902   By: Louis Becke (1855-1913)

Louis Becke's collection of stories, "The Strange Adventure Of James Shervinton and Other Stories," published in 1902, takes readers on a thrilling journey through the tumultuous sea adventures of the South Pacific. Among the gripping tales presented in this anthology, "Âmona; The Child; And The Beast; And Others" stands out as a haunting and captivating piece.

The story begins with exploring the mysterious fate of the ship Annabel, isolated in an unfamiliar South Pacific island. Becke effortlessly weaves a tale of survival and love amidst unimaginable circumstances. At the center of this captivating narrative is Shervinton, a restless sailor, whose encounter with Âmona, a captivating island girl, sets the stage for an enthralling plot.

One of the notable aspects of Becke's storytelling is his vivid descriptions, which transport readers to the vibrant locales of the South Pacific. The lush descriptions of the island, the roaring waves, and the vibrant indigenous culture allow readers to immerse themselves in the story fully. Becke's remarkable ability to evoke a sense of place adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, beautifully complementing the plot's intense moments.

What makes "Âmona; The Child; And The Beast; And Others" stand out is the author's portrayal of complex characters. Shervinton's character development is particularly intriguing as he grapples with his feelings of love, loyalty, and the ultimate test of survival. Becke captures Shervinton's internal struggles with a deft hand, making him relatable to readers who may find themselves drawn to the sea's allure.

It is also worth mentioning that the story seamlessly intertwines elements of adventure and romance. Becke masterfully combines thrilling action sequences with tender moments of connection, offering readers a well-balanced reading experience. The tension between the characters and their surroundings creates a gripping atmosphere that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.

While "Âmona; The Child; And The Beast; And Others" is undeniably captivating, it is not without its flaws. Some readers may find Becke's occasional use of dialect and outdated beliefs jarring or uncomfortable, as it reflects the time period in which the collection was written. However, it is important to approach the book with an understanding of the historical context to fully appreciate the stories as an insight into colonial literature.

Overall, "Âmona; The Child; And The Beast; And Others" is a remarkable addition to the collection of maritime adventure literature. Louis Becke's skillful storytelling, authentic portrayal of characters, and meticulous attention to detail make this story a memorable and engaging read. Despite its occasional shortcomings, this anthology stands as a testament to Becke's ability to transport readers to the captivating world of the South Pacific, leaving them hungry for more tales of high seas and daring adventures.

First Page:

Âmona and Denison had the distinction of being employed by Armitage, one of the most unmitigated blackguards in the Pacific. He was a shipowner, planter, merchant, and speculator; was looked upon by a good many people as "not a bad sort of a fellow, you know and the soul of hospitality." In addition, he was an incorrigible drunken bully, and broke his wife's heart within four years after she married him. Âmona was his cook. Denison was one of his supercargoes, and (when a long boat of drunkenness made him see weird visions of impossible creatures) manager of the business on shore, overseer, accountant, and Jack of all trades... Continue reading book >>