PETER DUCK - Based on information supplied by the Swallows and Amazons and Illustrated mainly by Themselves

This is supposed to be "just a children's book", but I was about 30 when I first read this book, and I tell you... it was ABSOLUTELY AWESOME and WILDLY EXCITING to me! The author is really good at writing this series about the exciting outdoor adventures of the Walker and Blackett children, and this is one of his most intensely thrilling tales. His vivid descriptions of the various scenes are extremely good, and the unexpected and clever plot twists are very satisfying and enjoyable. Highly recommended!

As The Hobbit distills so much of Norse and Teutonic fairy-tales into a perfect whole, this distills the pirate-treasure hunt story. Told with all the author's expert seamanship and descriptive power, it is impossible to imagine a better tale in the genre. A great introduction to Ransome, a wonderful author!