Treasure Island

Treasure Island was published on November 14th 1883, by the Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson. The book is a short adventure novel, based around the central theme of pirates and treasure.

The basic storyline is that there is a boy, named Jim Hawkins, who comes by a treasure map, containing the exact locations of a sailor’s previously found treasure. However, a group of treasure-hungry pirates crack on. They begin a mutiny in the realisation that their dream of being rich can be fulfilled. They are after as much treasure and gold as they can get. And they’re ready for a fight.

I feel that this book presents the reader with some good values to hold throughout their life. It shows children that even as the underdog, you can make it through. This is shown is the case of Jim Hawkins. This novel also shames current authors and children’s literature from this age. This book contains everything you could ever wish for in a children’s novel: a gripping storyline, some mottos and morals for life, a brilliant writing style and demonstration of techniques, and finally a set of characters, all of which the reader is able to empathise with. The reader is made to feel as if they are actually Jim Hawkins, as his narrative skills hook the reader in, and never let go until the situation is nearly over.

I would highly recommend this book for any person of any age to read, as I think they would enjoy it just as much as any child would. Although the book can be difficult to understand at times, I’m sure that after a few minutes it will all work out and surprise you at times.

James Young