Book details
The Swiss Family Robinson or, Adventures on a Desert Island
Description
When the ship's crew evacuate without them, the Robinson family are left to survive a great storm alone. The ship survives the night, and the family soon find themselves on a tropical desert island. The book covers more than ten years with the Robinson's exploring various environments and building homes and gardens in various sites about the island. Throughout their adventures the Robinson's wonder if they will ever again rejoin the rest of humanity.The Swiss Family Robinson was intended to teach Johann David Wyss' four sons about family values, good husbandry, the uses of the natural world, and self-reliance. Wyss presents adventures as lessons in natural history and physical science. Wyss' attitude toward education is in line with the teachings of Jean-Jacques Rousseau and many chapters involve Christian-oriented moral lessons such as frugality, husbandry, acceptance, and cooperation.This cloth-bound book includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket, and is limited to 100 copies.
Age
7-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
288 pages
Why to read
- Classic Adventure Tale: 'The Swiss Family Robinson' is a timeless novel that captures the essence of adventure and the human spirit. It is a story that has been cherished by generations for its depiction of a family's ingenuity, resilience, and unity in the face of adversity.
- Survival and Ingenuity: The book provides an inspiring narrative about survival on a deserted island, showcasing the family's resourcefulness in using the materials at hand to create a comfortable life for themselves. It encourages readers to think creatively and to appreciate the value of self-sufficiency.
- Educational Value: As the family encounters various plants, animals, and natural phenomena, the book serves as an educational tool, teaching readers about biology, ecology, and geography in an engaging and accessible way.
- Family and Moral Values: 'The Swiss Family Robinson' emphasizes the importance of family bonds, cooperation, and moral values. It presents positive messages about working together, overcoming challenges, and the rewards of hard work and dedication, making it a great read for both children and adults.