Swallows and Amazons

Ransome, Arthur

ISBN 10: 0955052904 ISBN 13: 9780955052903

Publisher: Gabriel Woolf, 2005

Synopsis

For the Walker children, sailing the boat Swallow to an island for a camping trip is a fantastic adventure. But soon they find themselves under attack from the fierce pirates of the Amazon, Nancy and Peggy. And so begins the battles, alliances and discoveries in a summer like no other.

About this title

Review:

Arthur Ransome was a prolific writer of children's books. Born in Leeds in 1884, it was his father, a nature-loving history professor, who inspired his love of the outdoors and nurtured a passion for fishing. As a child he enjoyed active, outdoor holidays: sailing, camping and exploring the countryside. He used many of these holiday settings for his children's stories, notably the much loved Swallows and Amazons, a book that sits comfortably in the category of "timeless classic" and remains one of his most popular titles for young people.

It is the wholesome story of four young children, John, Susan, Titty and Roger, who set out in their boat (the Swallow of the title) to an island of adventure. All seems well until they encounter their enemy. At first they are angry at the invasion of their peaceful haven by these Amazon pirates, Nancy and Peggy, who claim ownership of the land. But in time a truce is called and the Swallows and Amazons become firm friends. Camping under open skies, swimming in clear water, fishing, exploring and making discoveries is the stuff of dreams which serves to make this so charming a tale. The author manages to capture the innocence of a time when all this was real and possible. Swallows and Amazons will transport children to a fantastical place where they can play safely and roam freely, without an adult in sight.

Review:

"I absolutely loved this book as a boy.... The simple line drawings were just wonderful; they gave the feeling of wide open spaces and freedom." (Tony Ross)

"My childhood simply would not have been the same without this book. It created a whole world to explore, one that lasted long in the imagination after the final page had been read" (Markus Sedgwick)

"All the thrills of Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe" (Daily Telegraph)

"The very stuff of play" (The Guardian)

"Thrilling not only to young readers fond of the sea, but also to older readers who remember how they enjoyed sea stories when they themselves were young" (Scotsman)

About this edition

• Publisher: Gabriel Woolf
• Publication date: 2005
• ISBN 10: 0955052904
• ISBN 13: 9780955052903
• Binding: Audio CD