'Away in the Wilderness' Summary

"Away in the Wilderness" is a thrilling adventure novel by R. M. Ballantyne that takes readers on a journey through the rugged Canadian wilderness. The story follows the exploits of three young men – Harry, Paul, and Charlie – as they leave their homes in search of a new life in the untamed wilderness.

The year is 1800, and the Canadian wilderness is still largely unexplored. The trio of adventurers sets out from their hometown of Montreal with high hopes, but soon they find themselves faced with one challenge after another. From treacherous mountain passes to raging rivers and hostile native tribes, the men must use all their wits and survival skills to make it through.

Along the way, the characters encounter a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and moose. The descriptions of the animals and their behavior are so vivid that readers can almost feel the tension and danger. However, the biggest threat to the men's safety comes from the harsh weather conditions. The snow and cold are particularly brutal, and the trio must work hard to stay warm and dry.

As they journey deeper into the wilderness, the characters come face to face with the realities of life in a new land. They must learn to adapt to the customs and ways of the native tribes they encounter, and they must also deal with the prejudices and biases that come with being a colonialist.

Throughout the book, Ballantyne's love of nature shines through. His detailed descriptions of the landscape, flora, and fauna of the Canadian wilderness are stunning, and readers will feel transported to another time and place. However, the book is not without its flaws. The characters' attitudes toward the native tribes they encounter may be seen as problematic by modern standards, and some readers may find this aspect of the book uncomfortable.

Overall, "Away in the Wilderness" is an exciting adventure story that will appeal to anyone who loves tales of exploration and survival. Ballantyne's skillful storytelling and beautiful prose make the book a joy to read, and the characters' struggles and triumphs will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.