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R. M. Ballantyne
R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish novelist and journalist, best known for his adventure stories for boys. He was a prolific writer, publishing over 80 books during his lifetime. His novels were popular in his own time and continue to be read today.
Early Life
Ballantyne was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1825. He was the eldest son of a banker. He attended Edinburgh Academy and then the University of Edinburgh, where he studied law. However, he gave up his legal studies to pursue a career in writing.
Career
Ballantyne began his career as a journalist. He wrote for several newspapers and magazines, including The Times and The Edinburgh Review. In 1856, he published his first book, The Young Fur Traders. This book was a success, and Ballantyne went on to write many more adventure stories for boys.
Principles
Ballantyne's novels promote the values of courage, self-reliance, and Christian faith. His characters are often young boys who overcome challenges and obstacles through their own determination and perseverance. Ballantyne believed that adventure stories could teach boys important life lessons and help them to become better men.
Notable Works
Some of Ballantyne's most notable works include:
- The Coral Island (1858)
- The Dog Crusoe (1861)
- The Gorilla Hunters (1862)
- The Lighthouse Boys (1865)
- Black Ivory (1866)
- The World of Ice (1872)
- The Rover of the Andes (1873)
Philosophy
Ballantyne's philosophy was based on the belief that adventure stories could teach boys important life lessons and help them to become better men. He believed that boys needed to be challenged and tested in order to grow and develop. He also believed that boys needed to learn the importance of courage, self-reliance, and Christian faith.
Death and Legacy
Ballantyne died in 1894 at the age of 69. He is remembered as one of the most popular and influential writers of adventure stories for boys. His novels have inspired generations of readers and continue to be enjoyed today.
Interesting Facts About R.M. Ballantyne
- Ballantyne was a skilled outdoorsman. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting.
- Ballantyne was also a talented artist. He illustrated many of his own books.
- Ballantyne was a devout Christian. His faith played an important role in his life and his writing.
- Ballantyne's novels have been translated into many languages and have been adapted for film and television.
Books by R. M. Ballantyne
Freaks on the Fells: Three Months' Rustication, Story 3
In "Freaks on the Fells: Three Months' Rustication, Story 3" by R. M. Ballantyne, an enigmatic world of adventure unfolds as we follow the compelling journey of three unlikely comrades. Amidst the rugged and untamed landscape of the fells, an extraor...
Freaks on the Fells: Three Months' Rustication, Story 1
Imagine spending a summer exploring a mysterious mountain range, filled with hidden caves, ancient ruins, and strange creatures. That's the adventure that awaits the three young protagonists of Robert Michael Ballantyne's classic coming-of-age story...
Fighting the Flames
In the heart of a bustling city, where flames dance and danger lurks, a group of fearless firefighters stands ready to face the inferno's wrath. Amidst the crackling heat and billowing smoke, they battle against the destructive force of fire, risking...
Fighting the Whales
A fatherless boy joins the crew of a whaling ship in order to earn a living for himself and his mother. Beyond being a fascinating depiction of a now-alien time, occupation, and culture, it's also a rousing adventure story. One is left with the impre...
Golden Dream
Thoroughly engaging, at times even harrowing, adventure tale set in the San Francisco gold rush. Detailed depiction of its time and place, complete with everything from mining techniques to societal attitudes. You'll feel like you're in the diggings....
Madman and The Pirate
R. M. Ballantyne (April 24, 1825 – February 8, 1894) was a Scottish juvenile fiction writer. Born Robert Michael Ballantyne in Edinburgh, he was part of a famous family of printers and publishers. At the age of 16 he went to Canada and was six years...
Dog Crusoe and His Master
This is a story of an adventure involving a young man, his dog, and two friends. Together they wander through the Western prairies on a mission to make peace between the "pale-faces" and the "Red men". They face many perils and become heroes many tim...
Fast in the Ice
At the age of 16 Ballantyne went to Canada and was six years in the service of the Hudson's Bay Company. His rule in writing, being in every case, was to write as far as possible from personal knowledge of the scenes he described.In this book he deta...
Coral Island
Coral Island is a classic adventure tale that follows three young castaways as they try to survive on a remote and dangerous island. The boys must learn to fend for themselves, build shelter, and navigate the treacherous waters and hostile natives. A...
Black Ivory
Black Ivory is an adventure novel set in 19th-century East Africa, where the slave trade still flourishes. Two young men, shipwrecked on the coast, find themselves caught up in the dangerous world of slave traders and British anti-slavery patrols. Th...
My Doggie and I
*My Doggie and I* is a charming and heartwarming tale about the power of friendship and the unexpected connections that can bring people together. The story follows the unlikely friendship between a young orphan boy, a kind-hearted young woman, a you...
Iron Horse
The provided excerpt introduces a scene where a young man named Edwin finds himself in an unexpected and uncomfortable situation. While traveling by train, he is confronted by a man named Blunt about a strapped rug that is not his property. Edwin is...
Post Haste
Post Haste is a book by R. M. Ballantyne that tells the story of Phillip Mayland and his friend, George Aspel, who work for the British Post Office in the 19th century. The book is based on real events and provides an interesting look at the postal s...
Charlie to the Rescue
Charlie Brooke is a young boy with a heart of gold. He is always looking for ways to help others, even when it puts himself in danger. In this book, Charlie's latest rescue attempt could turn out to be his most dangerous yet. When he learns that a gr...
Twice Bought
Set during the Oregon Gold Rush, "Twice Bought" follows the journey of Tom Brixton, a young man consumed by gambling and lured astray by bad companions. His steadfast friend, Fred Westly, tries to guide him back to righteousness, but Tom's reckless p...
Island Queen
Island Queen is a story about three siblings, Dominic, Otto, and Pauline Rigonda, who are shipwrecked on an island. They are later joined by the immigrant passengers and crew of a ship that is also wrecked on the island. Together, they form a colony...
Jarwin and Cuffy
Jarwin and Cuffy is a classic children's adventure novel by R. M. Ballantyne. The story follows Jarwin, an English sailor who is shipwrecked and stranded on a raft with only his dog Cuffy. With their food and water running out, Jarwin must use all of...
Dusty Diamonds Cut and Polished
'Dusty Diamonds Cut and Polished' tells the story of street urchins navigating the harsh realities of Victorian-era London. It explores themes of poverty, social injustices, and the potential for positive change through Christian faith. The narrative...
Away in the Wilderness
'Away in the Wilderness' follows Jasper Derry, a former employee of the Hudson's Bay Company, as he returns to the Canadian wilderness to confront unfinished business. The novel paints a vivid picture of the untamed landscape and harsh realities of f...
Pirate City: An Algerine Tale
Pirate City is a classic adventure novel by R. M. Ballantyne. The story follows the adventures of the Rimini family, who are captured by Barbary pirates and taken to the city of Algiers. The family must use all their wits and courage to survive in th...