Children of the Wild   By: Charles George Douglas Roberts (1860-1943)

Children of the Wild by Charles George Douglas Roberts is a beautifully crafted novel that takes readers on a captivating journey into the untamed wilderness of Canada. With meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of nature, Roberts paints a vivid picture of a world where humans and animals coexist in rare harmony.

The story follows the protagonist, Jack Howland, a young boy who grows up among the wild animals of the Canadian forests. Through Jack's eyes, we witness the wonders and perils of the wilderness, where survival depends on understanding the language of the wild and respecting its laws. Roberts's writing effortlessly transports us to this enchanting world, where stunning landscapes serve as both backdrop and character.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its rich and fully realized characters. Each creature that crosses paths with Jack comes to life with distinct personalities and motivations. From the wise and majestic moose, Ishmael, to the cunning and elusive lynx, Silverstreak, these animals serve as both mentors and adversaries to Jack, imparting valuable lessons of survival and respect for the natural world.

Roberts's love and deep knowledge of wildlife shines through in every page of the book. His exquisite descriptions of the animals' behaviors, habitats, and interactions with each other are testament to his passion for the subject. The author's meticulous research is evident, and readers will find themselves learning about various species and their unique traits while engrossed in the narrative.

Moreover, Children of the Wild tackles timeless themes of belonging, self-discovery, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. As Jack grapples with his own identity and place in the world, he must also navigate the complexities of human interference in nature. Roberts skillfully weaves these underlying messages into his storytelling, inviting readers to contemplate their own relationship with the natural world and the impact of human actions.

Despite its engaging plot and captivating prose, the pacing of Children of the Wild may sometimes feel slow for readers seeking constant action. However, this deliberate pace mirrors the languid rhythms of nature, gradually immersing us in its rhythms and allowing for a deeper connection to the characters and their surroundings.

Overall, Children of the Wild is a remarkable achievement, showcasing Charles George Douglas Roberts's mastery as a writer and naturalist. It is a book that will enchant both young and adult readers alike, reminding us of the beauty and fragility of the natural world and the profound lessons it has to offer.

First Page:

In the brown, balsam smelling log cabin on the shores of Silverwater, loveliest and loneliest of wilderness lakes, the Babe's great thirst for information seemed in a fair way to be satisfied. Young as he was, and city born, the lure of the wild had nevertheless already caught him, and the information that he thirsted for so insatiably was all about the furred or finned or feathered kindreds of the wild. And here by Silverwater, alone with his Uncle Andy and big Bill Pringle, the guide, his natural talent for asking questions was not so firmly discouraged as it was at home... Continue reading book >>