Boon Island by Kenneth Roberts is a historical fiction novel that tells the gripping tale of a shipwreck off the coast of Maine. The book portrays the harrowing experiences of the crew members who were stranded on a barren rock island, facing extreme weather conditions and resorting to cannibalism in order to survive. Roberts skillfully weaves together elements of excitement, suspense, and fear, creating a narrative that delves into themes of human endurance, ingenuity, and the best and worst aspects of human nature during times of crisis.
The author, Kenneth Roberts, presents a different perspective on historical events through his storytelling, blending authentic background details with fictionalized accounts of the shipwreck and its aftermath. Boon Island is praised for its mix of history and fiction, engaging writing style, and the way it vividly portrays the struggles of the crew members as they fight for survival against all odds.
From The Publisher:
This classic tale of shipwreck and survival is reprinted with essays that provide a historical perspective and trace the sources from which Kenneth Roberts (1885-1957) drew his tale.
A native Mainer, Roberts, whose historical novels include Northwest Passage and Arundel, was intrigued by the story of the December 1710 wreck of the Nottingham. After running aground a dozen miles offshore, the ship broke up, stranding her crew with minimal tools, scant shelter, and a few pieces of cheese.
The men survived nearly a month of screeching gales, sub-freezing temperatures, and driving snowstorms. During their ordeal they resorted to cannibalism and were finally rescued after one of them made it ashore on a crude raft.
Included here are contemporary accounts from crew members, offering dramatically different versions of the true-life traumatic event and a fascinating counterpoint to Roberts' fictionalized version. A bestseller when published in 1956, Boon Island is a story of the ways that crisis can inspire the best—and worst—in human nature.
Reader Stats (9):
Want To Read (5) | |
Not Interested (4) |
What can you read after
Boon Island?
About the Author:
The editors are at Mary Washington College where JACK BALES is Reference Librarian and author of two books on Kenneth Roberts and RICHARD WARNER is Professor of History.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
