Martin Rattler By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)
Martin Rattler by Robert Michael Ballantyne is an adventurous and captivating tale that takes readers on a thrilling journey. The story follows the young and courageous Martin Rattler, a twelve-year-old boy who finds himself caught in a series of treacherous circumstances. Set against the backdrop of the exotic island of Madagascar, the novel presents a vivid depiction of the island's beauty and dangers. Ballantyne’s descriptive writing style transports readers into the heart of the adventure, making every page come alive with vibrant imagery and a sense of urgency. The character of Martin Rattler is wonderfully crafted, displaying a mix of innocence, resilience, and bravery. As he becomes shipwrecked and stranded on the island, Martin's resourcefulness and determination shine through as he faces numerous challenges, including encounters with wild animals and unfriendly tribes. Not only is the story filled with suspense and excitement, but it also offers valuable life lessons and moral dilemmas. Martin's growth as a character is evident as he confronts ethical dilemmas, forcing readers to ponder the consequences of one's actions and the importance of making responsible choices. One particular aspect of the book that stands out is Ballantyne’s ability to seamlessly blend adventure with educational content. Through Martin's interactions with the native people of Madagascar, readers gain insights into their culture, traditions, and way of life. These educational tidbits add depth to the narrative and enhance the reader's understanding of the diverse world in which Martin finds himself. Moreover, Ballantyne's writing displays sensitivity and respect for different cultures, challenging the stereotypes prevailing during the time period in which the book was published. This refreshing approach contributes to the longevity of Martin Rattler as a timeless classic that remains relevant to this day. However, despite the novel's many strengths, there are moments when the pacing slows down slightly, particularly during Martin's prolonged stay among the native tribes. Nevertheless, this can be seen as an opportunity for readers to gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural nuances and customs of the island. In conclusion, Martin Rattler is an enchanting adventure that will captivate readers of all ages. Ballantyne's masterful storytelling, combined with the vibrant setting and well-developed characters, make for an engaging read. The novel's exploration of cultural diversity, ethical dilemmas, and personal growth adds depth and resonance to the story, making it a worthwhile literary experience. First Page: MARTIN RATTLER BY R M BALLANTYNE 1858 EDITOR'S NOTE "MARTIN RATTLER" was one of, Robert Michael Ballantyne's early books. Born at Edinburgh in 1825,[1] he was sent to Rupert's Land as a trading clerk in the Hudson Bay Fur Company's service when he left school, a boy of sixteen. There, to relieve his home sickness, he first practised his pen in long letters home to his mother. Soon after his return to Scotland in 1848 he published a first book on Hudson's Bay. Then he passed some years in a Scottish publisher's office; and in 1855 a chance suggestion from another publisher led to his writing his first book for boys "Snowflakes and Sunbeams, or The Young Fur Traders." That story showed he had found his vocation, and he poured forth its successors to the tune in all of some fourscore volumes. "Martin Rattler" appeared in 1858. In his "Personal Reminiscences" Ballantyne wrote: "How many thousands of lads have an intense liking for the idea of a sailor's life!" and he pointed out there the other side of the romantic picture: the long watches "in dirty unromantic weather," and the hard work of holystoning the decks, scraping down the masts and cleaning out the coal hole. But though his books show something of this reverse side too, there is no doubt they have helped to set many boys dreaming of "Wrecks, buccaneers, black flags, and desert lands On which, alone, the second Crusoe stands... Continue reading book >>

Martin Rattler By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)

Martin Rattler by Robert Michael Ballantyne is an adventurous and captivating tale that takes readers on a thrilling journey. The story follows the young and courageous Martin Rattler, a twelve-year-old boy who finds himself caught in a series of treacherous circumstances.

Set against the backdrop of the exotic island of Madagascar, the novel presents a vivid depiction of the island's beauty and dangers. Ballantyne’s descriptive writing style transports readers into the heart of the adventure, making every page come alive with vibrant imagery and a sense of urgency.

The character of Martin Rattler is wonderfully crafted, displaying a mix of innocence, resilience, and bravery. As he becomes shipwrecked and stranded on the island, Martin's resourcefulness and determination shine through as he faces numerous challenges, including encounters with wild animals and unfriendly tribes.

Not only is the story filled with suspense and excitement, but it also offers valuable life lessons and moral dilemmas. Martin's growth as a character is evident as he confronts ethical dilemmas, forcing readers to ponder the consequences of one's actions and the importance of making responsible choices.

One particular aspect of the book that stands out is Ballantyne’s ability to seamlessly blend adventure with educational content. Through Martin's interactions with the native people of Madagascar, readers gain insights into their culture, traditions, and way of life. These educational tidbits add depth to the narrative and enhance the reader's understanding of the diverse world in which Martin finds himself.

Moreover, Ballantyne's writing displays sensitivity and respect for different cultures, challenging the stereotypes prevailing during the time period in which the book was published. This refreshing approach contributes to the longevity of Martin Rattler as a timeless classic that remains relevant to this day.

However, despite the novel's many strengths, there are moments when the pacing slows down slightly, particularly during Martin's prolonged stay among the native tribes. Nevertheless, this can be seen as an opportunity for readers to gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural nuances and customs of the island.

In conclusion, Martin Rattler is an enchanting adventure that will captivate readers of all ages. Ballantyne's masterful storytelling, combined with the vibrant setting and well-developed characters, make for an engaging read. The novel's exploration of cultural diversity, ethical dilemmas, and personal growth adds depth and resonance to the story, making it a worthwhile literary experience.

First Page:

MARTIN RATTLER

BY R M BALLANTYNE

1858

EDITOR'S NOTE

"MARTIN RATTLER" was one of, Robert Michael Ballantyne's early books. Born at Edinburgh in 1825,[1] he was sent to Rupert's Land as a trading clerk in the Hudson Bay Fur Company's service when he left school, a boy of sixteen. There, to relieve his home sickness, he first practised his pen in long letters home to his mother. Soon after his return to Scotland in 1848 he published a first book on Hudson's Bay. Then he passed some years in a Scottish publisher's office; and in 1855 a chance suggestion from another publisher led to his writing his first book for boys "Snowflakes and Sunbeams, or The Young Fur Traders." That story showed he had found his vocation, and he poured forth its successors to the tune in all of some fourscore volumes. "Martin Rattler" appeared in 1858. In his "Personal Reminiscences" Ballantyne wrote: "How many thousands of lads have an intense liking for the idea of a sailor's life!" and he pointed out there the other side of the romantic picture: the long watches "in dirty unromantic weather," and the hard work of holystoning the decks, scraping down the masts and cleaning out the coal hole. But though his books show something of this reverse side too, there is no doubt they have helped to set many boys dreaming of

"Wrecks, buccaneers, black flags, and desert lands On which, alone, the second Crusoe stands... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Adventure
Fiction
History
Sea stories
Teen/Young adult

eBook links
Wikipedia – Robert Michael Ballantyne
Wikipedia – Martin Rattler

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac