Masterman Ready; Or, the Wreck of the "pacific"

A novel aimed at children, written in the early 19th century. The story begins with a maritime disaster as the young William and old seaman Masterman Ready navigate the dangers of a storm on the vessel Pacific, which ultimately leads to a shipwreck. The narrative focuses on themes of adventure, survival, and the bond between the characters as they face both natural challenges and human issues aboard the ship. The opening of the novel sets the stage during a treacherous storm in the Atlantic Ocean, where the ship Pacific is in peril. Captain Osborn, along with Master Ready, a seasoned sailor, and young William, demonstrate a mix of courage and fear as they confront the ominous forces of nature. As the storm rages, we learn about their concerns regarding shipwrecks and the dangers they pose, including the possible perils of being stranded on a deserted island. Following the initial storm, the narrative also introduces the Seagrave family, who are passengers traveling to New South Wales, adding layers of familial dynamics and responsibility. The reader is left uncertain of the fate of these shipwrecked characters, arousing curiosity about their future adventures and survival efforts.