Customer Reviews

Adventures of Captain Horn (The Best Sellers of 1895)

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I have no idea why this novel never surpassed "Treasure Island" as a literary success because it's really so much better than that well-known, fine tale! This is a very old book, originally published in 1895 by Charles Scribner's Sons.

Here, Captain Horn, his small crew (the ones which survive), and some passengers (including women) are shipwrecked on the coast of South America. It's a wilderness in terms of expecting any help to arrive, and hundreds of miles away from any civilized community.

Ultimately, the party moves into a cave for protection against both the elements and unfriendlies who show up. Through a comedy of errors, a treasure trove beyond all belief, cached away by an ancient civilization, is discovered. That singular fact changes the dynamic of the activities of the castaways, forcing them to change their approach to their probable rescue.

I'll stop right there to avoid spoilers but, be assured, this is a superb adventure tale. The author, Frank R. Stockton, was a master at launching 'a turn of events' on his readers.

The (original 1895 hardcover) book is 404 pages in length and there is a sort of sequel, entitled "Mrs. Cliff's Yacht," published in 1907, again by Charles Scribner's Sons.

Don't miss this one, folks!

This work far exceeds that renowned R.L. Stevenson treasure. Written in 1895, readers will not be in the least disappointed after having savored this epic mystery/adventure. One of the ten best books I've ever read. A correction of the author's name, it is Frank R. Stockton.

The story is all about a 19th-Century shipwreck along the uninhabited coast of South America. There are women in the group as well as the Captain and some crew members. A few men row away for help (VERY far away!) but before any rescue can occur, ruthless pirates ascend upon the group. Also, a huge treasure is suddenly discovered in an ancient cavern, which serves to even further complicate the prospective rescue.

Brilliant!

This is an amusing book, full of surprises. Frank Stockton is famous for writing "The Lady or the Tiger?," but his novels and short humorous pieces are all a delight to read. And there are plenty of them. His collected works come to 23 volumes. It is nice to see this one back in print.

You might sample his work at the library. There is much to choose from.

This is a very old, but very well written book. Lots of action, excitement and much much more. I got it for free at the kindle store. Try it you'll like it.