Four Young Explorers

by Oliver Optic

Overview

Four young explorers or sightseeing in the tropics focuses on a group of curious and adventurous boys eager to exchange structured city travel for direct immersion in the natural world. Their journey into the tropics begins as they abandon the comforts of their cruise ship to explore the wilderness of Borneo. The narrative emphasizes a transition from passive observation to active engagement as the boys, guided by a native companion, delve into hunting, fishing, and studying unfamiliar flora and fauna. The opening chapters present their excitement in traveling up the Sarawak River aboard a small steam-launch, eager to encounter the raw environment beyond tourist sites. This desire for authenticity reveals their restlessness with conventional sightseeing and their deeper fascination with untamed landscapes. Their enthusiasm for the jungle is matched by an eagerness to understand new cultures and surroundings firsthand, marking a shift toward experiential learning. The novel uses these early scenes to build a foundation of youthful enthusiasm and an emerging appreciation for nature and exploration, setting the tone for a series of encounters that challenge, educate, and inspire the travelers.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9789371139694
Publisher:	Double 9 Books
Publication date:	05/01/2025
Pages:	222
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.51(d)

About the Author

William Taylor Adams, better known by his pseudonym Oliver Optic, was an American author, educator, and politician. Born on July 30, 1822, in Medway, Massachusetts, Adams made significant contributions to children's literature, particularly with his popular series of novels under the pen name Oliver Optic. His works, including All Aboard (1855) and The Casket of Diamonds (1892), often focused on themes of adventure, moral lessons, and the development of character, making them popular among young readers during the 19th century. In addition to his writing career, Adams was an active member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, serving from 1869 to 1870. His background in education and his interest in promoting moral and intellectual development in young people influenced much of his writing, which emphasized discipline, perseverance, and the importance of education. Adams continued to write prolifically throughout his life, contributing works such as Shamrock and Thistle and Our Standard-Bearer that explored themes of loyalty and patriotism. He passed away on March 27, 1897.