Fighting in Cuban Waters or, Under Schley on the Brooklyn   By: Edward Stratemeyer (1862-1930)

In Edward Stratemeyer's gripping historical novel, readers are transported to the tumultuous world of the Spanish-American War in the late 19th century. "Fighting in Cuban Waters or, Under Schley on the Brooklyn" is a riveting tale that combines adventure, patriotism, and a touch of romance, keeping readers hooked from start to finish.

The story follows the journey of Tom Travers, a young and determined protagonist who dreams of serving his country at sea. Stratemeyer's protagonist is a relatable and admirable character, displaying courage, resilience, and a strong sense of duty throughout the narrative. As Tom joins the American navy aboard the USS Brooklyn, readers are thrust into the heart of the conflict between Spain and the United States, eagerly experiencing the tension and uncertainty of war.

Through meticulous attention to detail, Stratemeyer skillfully recreates the treacherous conditions on the high seas during this historic period. His vivid descriptions of naval battles, including the famous encounter between the Brooklyn and the Spanish fleet, paint a visceral picture of the relentless fighting and the bravery exhibited by the American sailors. The author's ability to bring these moments to life, capturing the sights, sounds, and emotions that accompany such intense encounters, is truly remarkable.

What sets this novel apart is Stratemeyer's ability to seamlessly blend factual events with fictional characters and situations. While the historical context is accurately portrayed, readers are fully immersed in the personal experiences and emotions of the characters. In particular, the budding romance between Tom and his love interest adds a tender and relatable layer to the narrative, contrasting the harsh realities of war with the depth of human connection.

Stratemeyer's storytelling is paced to perfection, accelerating the suspense as the war progresses. The author strategically introduces plot twists and unexpected challenges for Tom and his comrades, leaving readers nervously flipping through pages, desperate to discover the characters' fate. These unexpected surprises inject the narrative with excitement, ensuring that readers never lose interest throughout the course of the book.

While "Fighting in Cuban Waters or, Under Schley on the Brooklyn" is a gripping tale of war and heroism, it also transcends its genre to address important themes. Stratemeyer thoughtfully explores the ethics of war, the impact of patriotism, and the personal sacrifices made in service to a greater cause. These thematic undercurrents provide readers with food for thought, encouraging reflection on the dynamics of conflict and the qualities that define true heroism.

Overall, "Fighting in Cuban Waters or, Under Schley on the Brooklyn" is a commendable novel that manages to combine adventure, romance, and historical accuracy into an engaging masterpiece. Edward Stratemeyer's skillful writing, attention to detail, and compelling characters make this book an absolute must-read for fans of historical fiction. Prepare to be transported to a different time and place, captivated by the bravery, sacrifice, and determination of Tom Travers and his comrades.

First Page:

In "Under Dewey at Manila" we followed Larry Russell's adventures on board of the flagship Olympia during the memorable contest off Cavite; in "A Young Volunteer in Cuba" we marched and fought with Ben Russell in that notable campaign leading up to the surrender of Santiago; and in the present volume are narrated the haps and mishaps of Walter Russell, who joins Commodore Schley's flagship, the Brooklyn , and sails with the Flying Squadron from Hampton Roads to Key West, thence to Cienfuegos, and at last succeeds in "bottling up" Admiral Cervera's fleet in Santiago Bay... Continue reading book >>