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"The Wanderers; Or, Adventures in the Wilds of Trinidad and Orinoco" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical novel set in the mid-19th century that follows the Macnamara family's escape from religious persecution and financial hardship. The story centers on the children, Guy, Marian, and their cousin Arthur, as they flee from their home in Pennsylvania and seek refuge in Trinidad. Their journey is fraught with challenges as they navigate colonial life and face ongoing threats from the Inquisition due to their Protestant faith. The family's troubles begin when political unrest and financial struggles force them to leave their prosperous life behind. In Trinidad, they are further unsettled by the death of their mother, whose burial becomes a point of contention when two priests attempt to impose Catholic rites. Fearing further persecution, the family flees into the wilderness of South America, where they hope to escape the Inquisition's scrutiny. The novel explores themes of faith, resilience, and survival as the family grapples with their beliefs and faces numerous dangers in a foreign land. The early chapters set the stage for a series of gripping adventures as the Macnamaras strive to remain true to themselves while enduring the hardships of exile.
About the author
William Henry Giles Kingston, commonly known as W.H.G. Kingston, was an English author celebrated for his adventure novels, particularly those targeted at young readers. Born on February 28, 1814, in Westminster, London, he was educated at Trinity College. Kingston gained fame for his engaging stories of exploration, heroism, and adventure, which appealed to the youthful imagination. His works often revolved around characters who embarked on thrilling journeys or faced great challenges, promoting virtues such as bravery, loyalty, and perseverance. These themes made Kingston one of the most notable figures in 19th-century children's literature. Over his career, he wrote numerous books, many of which were set in maritime or exotic locations, offering young readers both excitement and moral lessons. He spent most of his life in London, where he passed away on August 5, 1880, at the age of 66. His legacy lives on through his adventure stories, which continue to inspire and entertain readers interested in tales of courage and adventure.
