Rivers of Ice By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)
Rivers of Ice by Robert Michael Ballantyne is a captivating and awe-inspiring adventure set in the icy landscapes of the Arctic regions. The author skillfully weaves together a thrilling story that combines elements of survival, exploration, and discovery. The narrative follows the main protagonist, Thomas Rossetti, a young and ambitious explorer who sets out on a perilous journey to uncover the mysteries hidden within the icy rivers. Ballantyne paints a vivid picture of the treacherous Arctic terrain, describing its freezing temperatures, icy landscapes, and unpredictable weather patterns with great detail and accuracy. The author's extensive knowledge of the Arctic region is evident as he delves into various aspects of the environment, including the formation and movement of glaciers, the behavior of Arctic wildlife, and the challenges faced by explorers in this harsh and unforgiving land. This attention to detail not only enhances the authenticity of the story but also allows readers to immerse themselves fully in the world Ballantyne has created. Ballantyne's prose is concise yet elegant, creating a fluid and engaging reading experience. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with moments of calm and reflection interspersed with heart-stopping action sequences. The suspense and tension build gradually, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the outcomes of the characters' endeavors. The characters in Rivers of Ice are well-developed and relatable. Thomas Rossetti, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the novel as he confronts the dangers and challenges of the Arctic. His determination, resilience, and unwavering spirit make him an endearing and compelling protagonist. In addition to its thrilling plot and well-crafted characters, Rivers of Ice offers insightful commentary on the human desire for exploration and the need to push boundaries. Ballantyne explores themes of ambition, discovery, and the impact of human activity on the natural world, adding depth and thoughtfulness to the story. Despite its numerous strengths, Rivers of Ice does have a few minor shortcomings. The pacing occasionally slows down during exposition-heavy sections, which may deter some readers seeking a more fast-paced adventure. Additionally, a few plot twists and resolutions are somewhat predictable, although Ballantyne's writing style and overall storytelling ability compensate for these occasional predictabilities. Overall, Rivers of Ice is a captivating novel that transports readers to the gripping and perilous world of Arctic exploration. Through its well-developed characters, breathtaking settings, and thrilling plotlines, Ballantyne offers an immersive reading experience that will appeal to fans of adventure and exploration literature. Whether you have a fascination with the Arctic or simply enjoy a well-crafted, action-packed story, Rivers of Ice is a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression. First Page: RIVERS OF ICE, BY R.M. BALLANTYNE. CHAPTER ONE. THE ROVER'S RETURN. On a certain summer morning, about the middle of the present century, a big bluff man, of seafaring aspect, found himself sauntering in a certain street near London Bridge. He was a man of above fifty, but looked under forty in consequence of the healthful vigour of his frame, the freshness of his saltwater face, and the blackness of his shaggy hair. Although his gait, pilot cloth coat, and pocketed hands proclaimed him a sailor, there were one or two contradictory points about him. A huge beard and moustache savoured more of the diggings than the deep, and a brown wide awake with a prodigiously broad brim suggested the backwoods. Pausing at the head of one of those narrow lanes which running down between warehouses, filthy little rag and bone shops, and low poverty stricken dwellings appear to terminate their career, not unwillingly, in the Thames, the sailor gazed before him with nautical earnestness for a few seconds, then glanced at the corner house for a name; found no name; cast his eyes up to the strip of blue sky overhead, as if for inspiration; obtained none; planted his legs wide apart as if he had observed a squall coming, and expected the lane to lurch heavily wrinkled his eyebrows, and pursed his lips... Continue reading book >>

Rivers of Ice By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)

Rivers of Ice by Robert Michael Ballantyne is a captivating and awe-inspiring adventure set in the icy landscapes of the Arctic regions. The author skillfully weaves together a thrilling story that combines elements of survival, exploration, and discovery.

The narrative follows the main protagonist, Thomas Rossetti, a young and ambitious explorer who sets out on a perilous journey to uncover the mysteries hidden within the icy rivers. Ballantyne paints a vivid picture of the treacherous Arctic terrain, describing its freezing temperatures, icy landscapes, and unpredictable weather patterns with great detail and accuracy.

The author's extensive knowledge of the Arctic region is evident as he delves into various aspects of the environment, including the formation and movement of glaciers, the behavior of Arctic wildlife, and the challenges faced by explorers in this harsh and unforgiving land. This attention to detail not only enhances the authenticity of the story but also allows readers to immerse themselves fully in the world Ballantyne has created.

Ballantyne's prose is concise yet elegant, creating a fluid and engaging reading experience. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with moments of calm and reflection interspersed with heart-stopping action sequences. The suspense and tension build gradually, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the outcomes of the characters' endeavors.

The characters in Rivers of Ice are well-developed and relatable. Thomas Rossetti, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the novel as he confronts the dangers and challenges of the Arctic. His determination, resilience, and unwavering spirit make him an endearing and compelling protagonist.

In addition to its thrilling plot and well-crafted characters, Rivers of Ice offers insightful commentary on the human desire for exploration and the need to push boundaries. Ballantyne explores themes of ambition, discovery, and the impact of human activity on the natural world, adding depth and thoughtfulness to the story.

Despite its numerous strengths, Rivers of Ice does have a few minor shortcomings. The pacing occasionally slows down during exposition-heavy sections, which may deter some readers seeking a more fast-paced adventure. Additionally, a few plot twists and resolutions are somewhat predictable, although Ballantyne's writing style and overall storytelling ability compensate for these occasional predictabilities.

Overall, Rivers of Ice is a captivating novel that transports readers to the gripping and perilous world of Arctic exploration. Through its well-developed characters, breathtaking settings, and thrilling plotlines, Ballantyne offers an immersive reading experience that will appeal to fans of adventure and exploration literature. Whether you have a fascination with the Arctic or simply enjoy a well-crafted, action-packed story, Rivers of Ice is a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

RIVERS OF ICE, BY R.M. BALLANTYNE.

CHAPTER ONE.

THE ROVER'S RETURN.

On a certain summer morning, about the middle of the present century, a big bluff man, of seafaring aspect, found himself sauntering in a certain street near London Bridge. He was a man of above fifty, but looked under forty in consequence of the healthful vigour of his frame, the freshness of his saltwater face, and the blackness of his shaggy hair.

Although his gait, pilot cloth coat, and pocketed hands proclaimed him a sailor, there were one or two contradictory points about him. A huge beard and moustache savoured more of the diggings than the deep, and a brown wide awake with a prodigiously broad brim suggested the backwoods.

Pausing at the head of one of those narrow lanes which running down between warehouses, filthy little rag and bone shops, and low poverty stricken dwellings appear to terminate their career, not unwillingly, in the Thames, the sailor gazed before him with nautical earnestness for a few seconds, then glanced at the corner house for a name; found no name; cast his eyes up to the strip of blue sky overhead, as if for inspiration; obtained none; planted his legs wide apart as if he had observed a squall coming, and expected the lane to lurch heavily wrinkled his eyebrows, and pursed his lips... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Religion
Sea stories
Teen/Young adult

eBook links
Wikipedia – Robert Michael Ballantyne
Wikipedia – Rivers of Ice

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