Swallows and Amazons

By Arthur Ransome

Book Overview

Arthur Ransome's Swallows and Amazons series has stood the test of time. Ransome is not only a great storyteller, writing from first-hand experience, but each story celebrates eternally valuable qualities of practical knowledge, independence, and initiative. The twelve books are for children or grownups--anyone captivated by a world of sailing, adventure, and imagination.
Swallows and Amazons, the book that started it all in 1930, introduces the Walker family, the camp on Wild Cat Island, the able-bodied catboat "Swallow," and the two intrepid Amazons, plucky Nancy and Peggy Blackett.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0071YU6HU
• ISBN13: 9780879235734
• Release Date: July 2010
• Publisher: David R. Godine Publisher
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 0.91 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 5.5" x 7.9"
• Age Range: 9 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 4 to 7

Customer Reviews

The story comes alive!

If your desire for wholesome, beautiful books in your home, this classic is a must. My children of all ages love reading and hearing it read over and over! The story comes alive "like a movie playing in our heads" as my 14 year old depicted for me. Adventure with in a group of siblings. Perfect for summer or when studying pirates.

Swallows and Amazons forever!

I read this book for the first time when I was 37 and loved it so much I took to the sea and had adventures of my own. It's a wonderful, wonderful book for anyone who has ever dreamed of being on a boat -- or even for anyone who hasn't. Pemmican, bunloaf and chocolate have become staples of my diet; the descriptions of Susan's meals are out-of-this-world. In addition, the book is filled with practical lessons for sailing from how to line up markers to get into a hidden harbor to how to sail at night. I am Titty and my friend is Susan because he keeps careful lists and is always prepared. Our boat is "Summer Song" and we sail on the coast of Maine. We're looking forward to David Godine's publication of the complete series of books.