- young man is betrayed by only living relative, leading to months-long journey
- 1700s Scotland, gun & sword fights, extreme physical exertion, feuding clans, murder suspects, and new friendships
- convo: general violence kept age-appropriate (see below), a child is killed, frequent drinking, several deaths
- language: x3 stupid (only used as “senseless”), x2 damn, asses (donkeys)
Type: novel
Ages: 11+
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
If you’re looking for an adventurous fiction story set against real historic events, consider this one! The book is set a few years after violent battles had ceased between the English government and Jacobites, and tensions were still high. Stevenson draws from his Scottish heritage in young David Balfour’s story: unique traditions, particular etiquette, specific geographic locations, and many Scottish words. By “many” I mean at least a few hundred.
For that reason, you may appreciate this free printable (a 1-click auto-download). It’s a glossary I put together of Scottish words likely unknown to modern readers, especially younger generations. It will help you more intimately understand David’s plight, his relationships, and the wearying journey he takes. You’ll also find more pleasure and may just laugh aloud at a few parts!
David is a fine young man at age 17, though quite naive to the rougher ways of the world. He receives a harsh welcome as he sets out on his own for the first time–made particularly painful because his Scrooge-like uncle secretly sells him into slavery! After waking in chains on a ship out at sea, the journey really takes off.
Boys might especially love this book. David pulls out manly strength he didn’t know he had and learns to overcome many obstacles. Much of his journey is with another man who, in his sometimes gruff ways, draws out the best…and sometimes the worst…of him. Told in first person, we get a private glimpse into David’s thoughts as he struggles and grows.
Enjoy your reading!